S. Thomas’ College Clinches Semi-Final Spot with Victory Over Zahira College

In a thrilling second quarter-final of the Dialog Schools Rugby Knockouts 2024 – President’s Trophy, S. Thomas’ College emerged victorious with a 27-20 win over Zahira College at Sugathadasa Stadium on August 31st.

The Thomians, led by their captain Yehan Bulathsinghalage, set the tone early with a penalty kick to open the scoring (ZC 0-3 STC). In the 5th minute, Akith Cooray capitalized on a Zahira error to score a try under the posts, which Bulathsinghalage converted to extend their lead (ZC 0-10 STC).

Zahira College managed to get on the scoreboard in the 22nd minute with a penalty by their fly-half (ZC 3-10 STC). However, a poor clearance by Zahira soon led to another try for S. Thomas’, with hooker Dehan Senaratna driving over the line. The conversion was missed, but S. Thomas’ held a 15-3 lead (ZC 3-15 STC).

As the first half drew to a close, Zahira College fought back with a try from Basith Feroz, although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful (ZC 8-15 STC). S. Thomas’ responded with a final try of the half, as Avishka Perera collected a box kick and scored, giving them a 20-8 lead at halftime.

The second half saw Zahira College come out with renewed vigor. Abdul Careem scored a try in the 50th minute to close the gap to 20-13, though the conversion was missed (ZC 13-20 STC). Zahira’s Binuk Perera then dazzled with a solo try, sprinting from his own 22-meter line to score. Farzan’s successful conversion leveled the score at 20-20 (ZC 20-20 STC).

With the game hanging in the balance, Mianka Dias secured the win for S. Thomas’ with a decisive try. Bulathsinghalage converted once again, sealing the 27-20 victory. Dehan Senaratna’s dominant performance earned him the NDB Player of the Match award.