Monday Mar 23, 2026
Monday Mar 23, 2026
Saturday, 28 February 2026 01:12 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
By Shamseer Jaleel
Sri Lanka Air Force Sports Club produced a superb performance to record a memorable 34/28 victory over CH and FC in their quarter-final clash of the Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament played at the Royal Sports Complex yesterday.
Fresh from winning the Plate Championship, Air Force carried tremendous confidence into the knockout stage and shocked the fourth-placed league outfit CH and FC with a spirited and attacking display. Their determination, pace and ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities played a decisive role in one of the major upsets of the tournament.
The match was played at a hectic tempo with both teams adopting an open style of rugby. At the short breather, Air Force held a narrow 22/21 lead after a fiercely contested first half where the advantage changed hands several times.
CH drew first blood in the third minute when Lahiru Thilakaratne crossed over, with Janith Chandimal adding the conversion. Air Force responded through Shamika Kaushan who powered his way over for their first try. CH struck again through their overseas player Petro Missaele, once again converted by Chandimal, while Air Force kept pressing despite a couple of missed conversions by their kicker Kaluarachchi.
One of the key moments of the half came through Gayantha Iddamalgoda, who produced a brilliant kick-and-chase effort to score. CH skipper Janidu Dilshan then sprinted over 40 metres to score in the corner, but Air Force responded strongly with two quick tries from Ishara Madushan and Iddamalgoda to edge ahead by halftime.
After the turnaround, CH briefly regained the lead when Chandimal crossed over and converted his own try. However, the Air Force never relented and continued to attack with confidence and structure.
The decisive moment arrived when Shamika Kaushan powered over for his second try of the match. Iddamalgoda added the conversion to seal a famous win and guide Air Force into the semi-finals. Kenyan referee Lorence Kiunga officiated.
Pic by Upul Abayasekara
