“Strive with determination” – Motto of the Green Machine

Saturday, 24 May 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Nimal Luxshman

Isipathana College rugby team, who are also known as the “Green Machine” among rugby enthusiasts clinched the Schools Knockout Rugby Championship 2025 by beating Trinity College, Kandy on Sunday, 18 May marking their fourth consecutive title.

Their victory sparked widespread discussion among rugby enthusiasts, including those without allegiance to either team. While many agree that “rugby was the winner” in this tense final, both colleges deserve credit for a superb display of skill and determination that kept spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the match.

Isipathana’s path to the final was far from easy, as they had to overcome formidable opponents — Wesley College and Royal College — in the preceding rounds. It is therefore worthwhile to review both the final and their journey to the Royal College Sports Complex last Sunday, where they faced the Trinity “Lions” from Kandy.

The final showdown

In their quest to secure the Schools Rugby Knockout title for 2025, the Green Machine peaked at the perfect moment, snatching victory from Trinity College, Kandy, in a thrilling final before a packed crowd at the Royal College Sports Complex on 18 May.

The last try, scored moments before the final whistle, perfectly embodied Isipathana’s “never say die” spirit. While Isipathana played as a creative and cohesive unit, their opponents relied heavily on their fullback — who unfortunately seemed to have left his kicking boots at home. This dramatic turnaround in the closing moments of this rugby encounter was a bitter shock to the heartbroken Trinity supporters.

Season highlights for Isipathana College

Pre-Quarter-Final (26 April): Isipathana crushed Sri Sumangala College, Kandy, with a dominant 61–0 victory, showcasing their attacking prowess and depth.
Quarter-Final (4 May): In a thrilling encounter against Wesley College, Isipathana triumphed 24–10. After a 10-all halftime score, No. 8 Shaakib Zumri’s remarkable hat-trick of tries, in the second half, sealed the win.
Semi-Final (11 May): Facing arch-rivals Royal College, Colombo, Isipathana emerged victorious 24–17. Despite holding a comfortable 21–5 lead at halftime, the second half proved tense, highlighting the team’s resilience under pressure.

This season, Isipathana thrived under the guidance of new coach Dhanushka Botheju. Primarily known as a forwards coach, Botheju excelled in moulding the team into a cohesive and resilient unit.

Keys to victory

Isipathana’s success in the final can largely be attributed to their exceptional teamwork. Their primary objective during breakdowns was to secure possession — whether through the three-quarters or the forwards — a strategic focus that proved crucial in tight moments.

One notable challenge for Isipathana this season was the lack of a reliable placekicker, which nearly cost them dearly in the quarter-final and semi-final matches. Despite this, their exemplary fighting spirit perfectly embodied the school’s motto: “Strive with determination.”

Looking ahead

Isipathana cannot rest on their laurels. The team must carefully analyse their performances to date, sharpen their rough edges, and prepare for future opponents who will come “all cylinders firing” to deny them the league championship once again.

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