Isipathana College Triumphs Over Thurstan in Annual Football Encounter

Isipathana College secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Thurstan College in the annual football encounter held at Racecourse today (9th November), claiming the coveted trophy for the second consecutive year.

The match began with Isipathana settling quickly after an early period of adjustment, taking control and dictating play. Their opener came in the 22nd minute, as skipper Ammar threaded a precise pass through to striker Disnaka, who calmly slotted the ball past the helpless Thurstan goalkeeper. The goal was set up by a defensive lapse from Thurstan’s Senithu Nethmina, who allowed Disnaka to remain onside, giving Isipathana the early lead.

Despite the setback, Thurstan tried to mount a response, but Isipathana’s defence held firm, with the midfield controlling possession and denying the visitors any real chance of a comeback. Thurstan’s first serious attempt on goal came in the 85th minute, when Manaz Rahim’s curling effort forced a spectacular save from Disnaka, keeping Isipathana’s goal intact. Minutes later, Arush Udeepa struck from close range to pull one back for Thurstan, making the score 2-1.

However, Isipathana’s resilience proved decisive. In stoppage time, a turnover in Thurstan’s defensive area allowed Abdullah to win a penalty after a challenge by Akalanka Poornima. Kamsaan, named player of the match, confidently converted the spot-kick, sealing Isipathana’s 3-1 win.

Earlier in the first half, Isipathana had doubled their advantage in the 37th minute. Thurstan’s Senithu Nethmina mishit a clearance straight to Kamsaan, who made no mistake from close range to put the Green team 2-0 up. Thurstan struggled to recover, and Isipathana maintained control, exploiting gaps as Thurstan pressed forward in search of a goal.

The first half ended with Isipathana firmly in command, even after a long-range effort by Thurstan that was narrowly thwarted by a fortuitous bounce off goalkeeper Demith.

With this win, Isipathana College extends its dominance in the annual encounter, demonstrating composure, tactical discipline, and lethal finishing in key moments.