Royal Start as Favourites Against Isipathana in Blockbuster Second Round Clash

Defending Major Milroy Fernando Memorial Trophy holders Royal College will enter their highly anticipated Dialog Schools Under-19 League Rugby Tournament second-round encounter against Isipathana College as slight favourites when the two giants meet at Havelock Park on Saturday, June 6, at 4.15 p.m.

The fixture is expected to be one of the standout matches of the season, featuring two of the strongest teams in the competition. Royal will take confidence from their commanding 39-13 victory over Isipathana in the semi-finals of the Dialog President’s Trophy Schools Knockout Tournament earlier this year. The Reid Avenue outfit also retained the Major Milroy Fernando Memorial Trophy with a thrilling 34-31 win over Isipathana last season and will be eager to maintain their dominance.

Royal’s success has largely been built around a powerful and disciplined forward pack. Hooker Akira Yatawara, prop Lehansa Amarasinghe, Raaid Bary, and Nazir Haniffa have consistently laid a solid platform in the tight exchanges. Their greatest strength, however, lies in the loose-forward trio, led superbly by skipper and number eight Disas Pathirana.

Pathirana has been among the most influential performers in schools rugby this season. Alongside hardworking flankers Senuja Ranasinghe and Althaf Aman, he has given Royal a significant advantage at the breakdown, in open play, and through powerful ball-carrying. Should Royal gain control of the forward battle, they are likely to place considerable pressure on the Isipathana defence.

Nevertheless, Isipathana possess a resilient pack capable of matching Royal’s intensity. Lock Nevith Mewnaka, Sanuja Jayaweera, Thanuka Jayaweera, Kaveen Jayasinghe, and captain Shaakib Zumri have formed a hardworking unit that played a crucial role in the team’s impressive first-round campaign.

Traditionally known for their attacking flair, Isipathana once again boast one of the tournament’s most dangerous backlines. Their three-quarter division remains their biggest weapon and could prove decisive in their bid to upset Royal. Fly-half Nimantha Sandeepa will carry much of the creative responsibility. His vision, ability to exploit gaps, and knack for creating opportunities make him one of the most exciting talents in schools rugby. Centre Yuvindu Kodithuwakku is another key figure, capable of transforming defence into attack with his powerful running and elusive footwork.

Royal’s backs, meanwhile, have shown steady improvement throughout the season. Half-backs Saviskha Fernando and Shimak Shafeek will be tasked with controlling the tempo and providing quality service to the dangerous midfield pairing of Pravin Nimsara and Hiruka Jayanidu.

Jayanidu has emerged as one of Royal’s most potent attacking threats. His strength, direct running, and ability to break tackles could create major problems for the Isipathana defence. Out wide, Dinuka Perera and Kavan Ekanayake offer pace and finishing ability, while full-back Kavindu Hewage provides reliability under the high ball and frequently joins the attacking line to create overlaps.

Royal’s first-round performances highlighted their consistency. They recorded victories over Thurstan College (40-15), Science College (43-10), Kingswood College (13-6), and S. Thomas’ College (29-24), with their only setback coming in a 29-36 defeat to Zahira College.

Isipathana also enjoyed an impressive opening round, defeating St. Anthony’s College (43-10), Lumbini College (33-6), D.S. Senanayake College (31-10), and Sri Sumangala College (41-12). Their only defeat came against defending league champions Trinity College, who secured a 36-12 victory.

With both teams possessing the talent, depth, and experience to produce a memorable contest, fans can expect a fiercely competitive battle. While Royal appear stronger in the forwards and have already recorded a convincing victory over Isipathana this season, the Havelock Town school’s dangerous backline has the potential to change the course of the game. If Isipathana can secure quality possession and impose their expansive style of play, they will be more than capable of causing an upset.