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Sports

Wesley-Isipatana clash on June 14
Dilroy, requested to 'blow'
The much looked forward to rugby clash between Isipatana-Wesley, is bound to draw much spectator interest. Both teams are unbeaten and all roads will wend their way to Longden Place come June 14, to watch an exciting game. To make this a reality, it needs a competent referee, who will act without fear or favour.

Beggars can't be choosers. But the Wesley College rugby committee has suggested that Dilroy Fernando, despite being the chairman of the Isipatana rugby committee blow the match. They had made this request to the Schools Rugby Union, for all to enjoy. A referee could make or mar the game. He has to be fit and run with the ball. According to an official from the Campbell Park School it doesn't matter, who won, who lost, but it is the game that matters in the end.

Dilroy Fernando, when contacted by The Sunday Times, confirmed to this effect. But declined to comment. There is a dearth of referees who possess the mental skills, to control the game especially in school games where there is big crowd support unlike in a club match.

The likes of Brig. Jupana Jayewardena, Priyantha Ekanayake, Hisham Abdeen, Vipula Dharmadasa, C.P.P. Abeygunawardena, 'Shan' Perera, Nalin de Silva , Dunstan Silva, Rohan Abeykoon etc., must help the referee Society, at least even by officiating in school games. They have played the game at the highest level and the youngsters, too will have much to learn from them. The linesmen in the Dharmaraja-Wesley tie were two schoolboys. The referee was D. Nimal. What sort of assistance he could expect from them, if there is a shortfall whilst the game is in progress.

Referee abuse...
The IRB Council has taken a decision to curb referee abuse. It has called upon all Union Members to take a lead in dealing with referee abuse and take appropriate action in the event of such instances.

Now the law has been framed by the IRB and it's upto the local Rugby Union to act accordingly and put it into effect. In the local scene apparently at times the referee focus their attention only on the lapses of one team, but show a blind eye to the other team's shortcomings.

This has been constantly brought to that attention of the powers that be. But no remedial measures have been taken. The less affluent clubs are generally at the receiving end. This is another form of indirect club loyalty at the expense of the game. This is happening here on and off the field. Not only in school, club games, but apparently at times at the national level too.

A rugby referee was abused by an irate fan when a club team lost to a foreign side in the CR&FC international 75th anniversary tournament. He abused the referee for not supporting the local team, who lost the game in a close contest. - (B.W.)

Police vs CH & FC - Police won 16-15
Congratulations to the Police on their fine performance in defeating the CH last week. The game was played at a fast pace in the first half. However the CH have themselves to blame. There was no sense of urgency on their part. I also felt that the CH, need more 'staying' power and a more mobile pack. The Police had a good game plan. Their defence stood firm. Their Forwards harassed the CH pack. The Police tackled well and checked the CH three quarters. Further, their forwards ran with the ball to make gaping holes in the CH defence.

Navy vs. Kandy - kandy won 45-0
A controlled game by Kandy who did not "push" themselves too much. Navy had many chances of scoring but due to a poor finish they were unable to cross the Kandy goal line. Kandy were able to cross the Navy goal line only twice in the first half.
The man-of-the-match was Nalaka Weerakkody who put over 5 penalties and scored a fine try. Kandy were 'let-off-the-hook' on many occa-sions. Services teams have been taught the basics and rules.

Apart from this short-coming their positioning too was found wanting in some games. There was no doubt that Kandy is a well-knit side and I would say one of the best teams I have seen playing. Their replacements are more than adequate. They have a very professional approach and do not become unruffled.

Well done Coach CP Abeygoonewardena and Skipper Pradeep Basnayake. Navy needs good and knowledgeable replacements if they hope to be a strong force in the ongoing Season.

Army vs. Havelocks - army won 24-16
Army, according to reports were able to overcome the Havelocks in the second half. In the first half the Havelocks put up a good show with a flattering start and led at half time by 6 points to 5 points. Once again T A Silva played a great game.

Army centre Vajira Jayatilleke was able to bemuse the Havies defence and scored 3 splendid tries. Havelocks need to get fitter, particularly the third row.

Note: Unfortunately I was prevented from witnessing this game by the two soldiers at the second check-point who insisted that I produce my identity card . This is the first time for the season I have been embarrassed. On two previous occasions no identity card was required. We were only entering the Rugby Playground.

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