Ananda down Vidyartha in first leg of Gopallawa Shield
For much of the game Ananda came back very strongly in the last seven minutes to score three tries through their back division and win the First Leg of the Gopallawa Shield rugby game at Nittawela.
At the break, the scores were tied at 15 all. Shortly after Vidyartha were leading 18-15. Then all hell broke loose as the Anandians attacked furiously not only to get the decisive try but also put distance between them and their rivals.
Vidyartha used their forwards a lot while Ananda put their faith in the back division.
Vishwalahara, Samith Gamage, Shamil Nisham, Pasiru Ranaweera (2) and Shenal Dias scored for Ananda.
Ijaz Mohammed and Sandaruwan Etulgama touched down for the home team. Isuru Lakmal added the extra points.
Ananda’s points came through three goals and three tries while Vidyartya had a goal, a try and a penalty.
Deepal Punyawardena refereed.