Havies would look to pile on
Havies thrashed the Cops 36-0 in the first round of the Dialog League
“And how can man die better, than facing fearful odds” The above quote, possibly relevant” when writing on the Police-Havelocks game today at Police Park.
The odds are certainly stacked against the law enforcers who have yet to win a game in ten matches. The nearest they came to achieving a victory was in that 21 all draw against CH at the Park. However to say that the Police have been misfits in the Big League would not be quite correct. They were a bit unlucky to be pipped at the post by the CR (31-33) in a second round game. By the same token, they were thrashed twice by Kandy and once by CR.
Coach Shamly Nawaz had his hands full dealing with a team that has no input from outside. His courage in taking on the job is admirable. He would be the first to say that he has not worked wonders. Yet, after a sluggish start, the Police has certainly put points on the board. Scores of 20, 31 and 26 in the second round underline this.
Fly half Jayawickrema has indubitably played a part in achieving high scores. Together with Hashan Gomes, he has formed a decent pairing. Winger Sujan Kodituwakku has impressed with his speed and commitment. Others such as Gunasinghe, Janik Chandimal and full back Suranga Kasun are all part of a productive Police back division.
Up front, the Police have sturdy players and tireless workers such as Lahiru Pavitra, Achange, skipper Rasith Silva and Shanuka Harischandra. But the player who has caught the eye is ex-Zahirian Fawmi Wajith. He has scored some tries, but above all, it is his infectious enthusiasm that has been impressive. Need it be said that he has turned out for Sri Lanka as a junior.
The absence of the dynamic Muthutantri, and the injury to Dixon, in all probability, set the Havies back a bit. They lost to the Navy in the first round and endured a gut-wrenching 25-27 defeat at the hands of the CH. As far as title aspirations go, the Big Prize is certainly out of reach. They would do well to hang on to the number two spot.
The inclusion Azmir Fajudeen, the hooker, is interesting. One of the architects of Royal’s famous rolling maul. Fajudeen is obviously held in high esteem by Sanath Martis – his college coach and also his present one. Other big names in the pack are are Priyadarshana, Flatney, Madusanka and Shenal Deelaka and Lasindu Ishan – not a bad assemblage of talent and ability.
Link-man Suriyarachchi and his partner Dulaj Perera will obviously get three-quarters up and running. The Pereras – Hirantha and Nishon. Dabare and Vimukthi Rahula make for an exciting line up that will certainly test the Police defence.
For the record, the Police suffered an embarrassing 0-36 defeat in their opening match against the same opponents, So far as the mind-games go, the Havies are far ahead. But the Police, have also come a long way since that comprehensive defeat, will not be bettered.
After all, they are a fighting force!