Fighting Lankans lose 29-54

Despite a splendid second half rally Sri Lanka went down to the defending champions Japan 29-54 in their Junior Rugby Asiad opening fixture worked off in Hong Kong yesterday. The winners collected their points from seven goals and one try after having built up a commanding 28-8 lead at half time. Sri Lanka responded with three goals, one try and one penalty.

Sri Lanka were heading towards a heavy defeat at one stage after having conceded four tries to their opponents in the first half. But they staged a magnificent comeback and scored three tries in the second quarter before going down fighting.