Saunders taste first defeat

Bernard Perera

SOCCER: Saunders Sports Club from Pettah suffered their first defeat this season when they were beaten by the debutants New Youngs SC at Wennappuwa in their Kit Premier League second round encounter last weekend. Saunders are in top position in their group followed by the Wennappuwa team.

Saunders have collected a total of 20 points from nine games. While the Wennappuwa Club after the completion of eight games managed to a total of 17 points.

Meanwhile in the same group Blue Star Sports Club with 12 points are lying third. They have three more games left behind and if they win all these three matches could definitely can secure a berth in the semi final. It is also left to be seen how the New Youngs are going to fare in their two games to be played in coming two weeks.

They should win both games if they are to reach the semis and also to oust their followers Blue Star SC.

In Segment A-I the leaders Negombo youth have confirmed their position in the semis with a total of 22 points from 10 matches. They registered seven wins, but lost two and drew one game on their way to reaching the top of the table.

In the same group a battle is on for the second slot between the defending champions from Kotahena Ratnam SC and Sri Lanka Army. Both teams have gained 14 points. But the Ratnam SC have one game left for them and it has become a must win game for them.

A loss means their ouster from the semis.

Both leaders Negombo Youth SC and Sri Lanka Army have completed their quota of matches.

The Segment B-I Super Beach SC maintains their top slot while their closest rivals Java Lane Sports Club just two points behind with 17 points. These two teams have made sure of their semi final positions.

From Segment B-II Sri Lanka Navy and Red Sun Sports Club from Gampola have booked their slots to play the semis in Segment B. Sailors have gone to a big 11 point lead and it is sure that none can get closer to them.

Kandy York Sports Club and Old Bens SC are the two teams right at the bottom of the table in Segment A I and II respectively.