CR opened the scoring through halfback Zulky who's quick tap rewarded him with a try at the corner, Pushpakumara was unsuccessful with the conversion. An area that we won't dwell on too much since I m sure he's probably at the grounds practicing at this very moment. It would be foolish to think we would have to rely on drop kicking conversions when we go hunting for big game in a few weeks time.
Air Force came back into the game and put good pressure on CR, a careless pass saw an opposition forward intercept and come very close to scoring, but CR' got back in numbers and cleared, had it been one of the Air Force backs who got that opportunity they would have been home. This was probably one of the two opportunities that Air Force had to put points on the board, but CR defended well and kept the visitors out.
While CR did run the ball from their own 22, it was great to see such attacking flare, they took some risks that they probably would have lost out on had they been up against a more competent opposition. The 50/50 passes and some weak clearing kicks would have cost them. The Serviceman had a much bigger back line and one would have expected to see them execute a few moves or even set up a few phases from the crash ball but this wasn't part of their plan, opting to work their line or kick whenever they had possession.
The 2nd try came when winger Mustaq made a 35 meter break to send center Rajith in at the corner. With the conversion missed, CR led 10 – nil. The next couple of tries came from some good hands as the CR backline got their campaign rolling. Three tries to Pushpakumara and one to Wekadapola saw the red shirts pile up 34 points to Nil at half time. It was great to see winger Wekadapola, set up one of Pushpakumarra's tries before contributing with one of his own. This winger has grown in confidence over the last few games and his improved decision making and defense should see him more as a regular starter this season.
The second half saw the CR Forwards get in on the act. Their scrums were pretty untidy during the first half, losing a tight head and at times collapsing under pressure. But early into the 2nd half they showed more composure and got on with it. It was great to see CR's favorite son Savantha De Saram back on the paddock. He has grown more comfortable in that unfamiliar position of ‘Lock'. As everyone knows, he really is a Winger trapped in a forwards' body.
CR's 7th Try came after Rodda was held up and driven back when he was already over the line.. The ball was quickly re-cycled and centre Rajith crashed over for his second Try of the night. CR Captain and open side Pavithra got in a Try when he muscled his way over from a ruck 2 metres out. Pavithra tends to clear Rucks pretty much the way a Sherman Tank clears a jungle. Straight up the middle taking every man and his dog with him. Here's a forward who puts his head where some fear to put their boot. An inspiration to his troops.
Wekadapola got his 2nd in the 60 th minute when a well placed kick by full back Pushpakumara saw the ball land 15 meters out from the goal line, with the Air Force full back out of position, CR wingers Mushtaq and Wekadapola were following through at full throttle. The air force full back got to the ball first. However Mushtaq was able to make the tackle and whilst scrambling for possession, young Wekadapola got his hands in, stole the ball and dotted down under the sticks. A great Try.
Pushpakumara got his 4th Try before the final whistle and CR had once again sent their opponents packing. Having out scored Air Force 3 Goals & 7 tries to nil, CR would have much to celebrate but should not lose sight of the fact that they haven't had some formidable opposition in the last few games. This game for most was a stop start affair courtesy of the pedantic official. It was frustrating for both the players and spectators to listen to the whistle every two minutes. It was almost like Mr. Fernando was trying to win the game. One of the main criteria for improvement of the sport on our island should be that the SLRFU ensure the referee's are given all the guidance and training to be professional and consistent in their interpretation of the laws. This is the way forward.
On a lighter note, my thanks to Praki and Priyantha (Grero) who were more like the sideline Smithies of the CR. They supported with bits of info I may have missed whilst I was pouring my beer, and also offered some constructive criticism of the half time entertainment. Apparently the lead dancer needs to put in at least three more somersaults to really make an impact. A notable absentee was the CR mascot, who we fear may have been captured during his last outing. If anyone does see him though, please be kind enough to return him to the Hony. Secretary CR & FC.
View Action
|
