Nugawela Central - under 16 rugby champions

Nugawela Central College Kandy showed their class in rugby by beating the formidable Lalith Athulathmudali College Mount Lavinia by 5 points (1 try) to nil in the final of the under 16 Twelve-a-side rugby tournament.

Nugawela Central played upto expectations in all departments led by their skipper Dushantha Herath in the under 16 Div 11 12 A-side encounter which was held at the Maliga Sports Grounds Kurunegala on September 21. The Lalith Athulathmudali lads played a good game during the first half which was deadlocked. After Lemons 'Nugawela' centre A.C. Abeykoon planted a try far left of the try line. The match was played in pouring rain.

Due to slippery conditions the Lalith Athulathmudali lads spilled passes on several occasions.

More than 375 participants from 22 schools took part in this tournament which was organized by the Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA) and sponsored by Nestle Lanka Ltd. The Plate Trophy was won by Sri Rahula College (Kandy) who beat St. Josephs College Bandarawela by 5 points to nil.

The highlight of the day was newcomers Sir John Kotelawela Vidyalaya (Kurunegala) beating the much fancied Dharmapala College, Pannipitiya by 5 points to nil.

The chief guest was Dr. K.A.D Punyadasa (President SLSRFA/Principal) Isipathana College. The final was officiated by Y.M.S. Ratnayake.