The tournament opener was between Sabaragamuwa University and Wayamba University, and even though the Wayamba fullback managed to put early points on the board through a penalty conversion Sabaragamuwa University fought back valiantly to win the match 20 points (4 tries) to 13 points (2 tries, 1 penalty). Sabaragamuwa fly half played a superb game and earned two tries to his name while the other two were claimed by the hooker and the outside center. Try scorers for Wayamba were the prop forward and the number eight.

The second match of the day was dominated all the way through by Uva Wellassa University courtesy of their dazzling fly half who made some astounding tactical kicks to gain ground advantage for his team. His boot brought the first points for his team, first through a brilliant drop goal and then through a penalty conversion. The aggressive style of play by the Uva team did come at a costly price as three of their player spent time in the sin bin for unruly behavior. Kelaniya University capitalized on the extra numbers on the field and was able to make a solitary try though their swift center. But the inability to complete the conversion let Uva Wellassa retain the lead and in turn the backline was able score two more tries making the score 16-5. In the final minutes of the game Kelaniya was awarded a penalty try but even the conversion couldn’t bring them within reach of gaining the lead and the match ended with Uva Wellassa University winning 16-12.

Sabaragamuwa University will go on to meet Moratuwa University next week while Uva Wellassa University will meet with reigning champions University of Peradeniya.

Thushan Wickramasinghe

www.thescore.lk