Navy SC open 2020 with 1st win at Dialog Rugby League

Dialog Rugby League 2019/20

Navy SC beat Air Force SC 24-14 to win their first game of the Dialog Rugby League this season. The game was hosted by Navy SC at Walisara.

There were several changes to both teams coming into their 1^st game for 2020, and both teams looking for a first win this season.

Navy SC drew 1^st blood when Charith Silva crossed over the line. Chathura Senevirathne missed the conversion. 

Navy did not let go the initiative, and scored their second try of the game soon after. Dominated by the forwards, Radeesha Senevirathne broke away to touch down. Isuru Kongahawatta converted cleanly to give the host a 12 point lead.

Air Force came back strongly to put pressure on the host scoring 2 tries in quick time. Both tries were scored by hooker Parakkrama Rathnayake from the tail of rumbling mauls. Experienced Gayantha Iddamalgoda converted both tries to give the visitors the lead at half time, 14 points to 12.

The Second half started well for Navy with Charith Silva going over the line off a quick tap from his captain. Kongahawatta added the conversion. Navy in the lead 19 points to 14.

Parakkrama Rathnayake who had an excellent game till then went a touch too far and punched his opponent in the face, and was red carded. And Air Force had to play with 14 men.

Nilantha Jayaweera too was sent to the bin for a dangerous tackle, and the visitors were down to 13-men with lots of time left in the game.

But Navy failed to capitalize and increase the lead with both sides getting yellow cards in the process. Nirosh Perera finally did the finishing touches to get the bonus point try to gain their 1^st win in the Dialog Rugby League. Mushin Faleel failed to convert.

Air Force have a lot to play for still looking for their 1^st win. Navy will carry this confidence into the next game.

Score at Full Time:

Navy SC 24 (4 Tries, 3 Conversions) – Air Force SC 14 (2 Tries, 2 Conversions)