Zahira clinch Roger Rodrigo Trophy

M. Farook Lantra

Zahira College clinched the Roger Rodrigo Rugby Sevens Challenge trophy by beating last year’s champions Trinity College by 21 points (3 goals) to 14 (2 goals) during extra time, in the inter school rugby sevens tournament staged at the Wanderers Grounds, Sharjah UAE, recently.

Zahirians won the trophy for the first time in Sharjah. This annual encounter was organized by the Lanka Lions Sports Club for the fifth time.

Sri Lankan expatriates from 11 schools locked horns for this grand finale which was sponsored by Aramex. In addition to two teams representing combined Colombo Schools and UAE Schools took part.

Zahirian play-maker Imran Marso barged over for a try in the opening minute followed by another try by Faroon Hamim, which was converted by Marso. Before lemons Zahirians were leading 14 points to Trinity nil.

After the turn around the Trinitians gave a marvellous display who came back strongly with superior ball handling and passing skills, which applied pressure to the opponants. Trinitian Lakshan de Silva planted two superb tries which was converted by Imad Riyal, the score stood at 14 all and taking the final into extra time.

Skipper Ramshan Cuncheer of Zahira who played admirably gave a neat pass to his team mate Shaban Sheriff who breezed for the match winning try in the 3rd minute of extra time, and the final score was Zahira 21 points and Trinity 14. Skipper Ramshan Cuncheer of Zahira was adjudged the Most Outstanding player of the tournament.

On their way to the final, Zahira trounced Trinity B 42-00, Royal 49-7, Mahanama 14-7 and Thurstan 42-0 in the semi finals.

Trinity beat Isipathana in the semi finals 24-0, with Tony Wasim, Azarath Deen and Imad Riyal (2) scoring the tries. Mahanama won the Plate final defeating St Peters’ 21-5, with the skipper Kelum Taraka Silva scoring their opening try while Amila Perera touched down twice either side of the interval.

Saliya Asanka converted the tries. Malinga Fernando pulled one back for the Peterites before halftime. Wesley led by Daminda Kumara beat Royal 26-14 to win the Bowl final.

UAE schools team led by Roshan de Silva took the spoon for the first time when they scored an impressive 27-5 win over Trinity B. The cup Champions trophy was handed over to Zahira Skipper Ramshan Cuncheer by Roger Rodrigo.