On a brighter note this match was the first occasion that the majority of the team had played in CR & FC colours and to put in such a grand performance is a credit to the players. Off the field we are still piecing together our team and Academy so this means that our team will only get better as the selection for the academy positions occurs and the remainder of our targeted school players arrive for training.

Anyone who attended the match would have witnessed a lopsided competition but one glaring mismatch was the “Podi Factor”. Eranga Swarnatilake showed that he was a class above anyone else who played that day at Havelock park, performing for the healthy crowd with his trademark straight running and uncompromising attitude, who can argue with that it is the quickest way to the tryline. Surely KDA were asking themselves what had they done to deserve this? Podi is the Captain for this tourney and is one who is leading by example, keep up the good work mate, we are all looking forward to seeing you hold the cup high after the final.

Other players shone too, of note were the Wesley contingent of Henry Terrence (TH Prop) and fullback Anura Preyantha as well as former St josephs NO8 Silva whose positional play is quite remarkable for such a young player. Another new recruit and former Trinity pocket dynamo Pushpekumara had an outstanding match at flyhalf and marshaled the back division well considering the short preparation leading into this match. The usual suspects Karthelis and Sandun chiped in and scrumhalf Badra crossed for a trio.

The defence was never tested against KDA and it will be important that this week is dedicated to strengthening this area prior to meeting the more fancied teams in the coming weeks. The young team has good attacking potential and will need to back it up with sound defence if we are to progress to the Cup final on the 29^th of October. If the ball bounces the right way and the team gets the defensive patterns right and the phase attack well oiled we have an excellent opportunity to roll the defending champions CH.

Next match CR & FC U21 v Old Nalandian's U21, 3.45pm Sunday 16^th October at Havelock Park . We look forward to your support.