The Dialog Schools Rugby League returns today (12th June) in what could be a season-defining week for several teams. Let’s take a closer look at the fixtures and see exactly what’s at stake.
Plate Segment
St. Joseph’s College vs St. Anthony’s College
The boys from Darley Road welcome the Eagles to the home of rugby to kick off this week’s action. The Josephians enter this encounter as firm favourites after a polished performance against the Thomians last week. They now sit comfortably at the top of the table and are looking like the frontrunners to clinch the Plate Championship.
The Antonians will still be hurting after a narrow defeat last week. Conditions suggest a fierce battle up front, as the two heaviest packs in the Plate Segment go head-to-head.
Prediction – St. Joseph’s College
Thurstan College vs Sri Sumangala College
A high-stakes battle awaits at Sugathadasa, particularly for Sri Sumangala, as another defeat could spell the end of their title aspirations. On the other hand, Thurstan will be buoyant after a solid defensive display led them to a crucial away victory last week, and they will be eager to build on that momentum.
Prediction – Thurstan College win
Ananda College vs S. Thomas’ College
A disappointing season for the Thomians will not get any easier when they travel to Rajagiriya to take on a resurgent Anandian outfit. Ananda tend to raise their game on home soil and have proven to be a difficult opponent even for the strongest teams.
Taking both form and structure into consideration, the Maroons arguably enter this contest as favourites.
Prediction – Ananda College win
Bowl Segment
Prince of Wales College vs Kingswood College
Probably the easiest game to call this week. Both teams have operated at completely different levels this season, with the Randles Hill outfit looking like strong favourites to clinch the Bowl Championship.
The Cambrians have endured a difficult transition to the top division and will need something special to avoid relegation.
Prediction – Kingswood College win
Mahanama College vs Lumbini College
A crucial encounter between two teams who find themselves in danger of relegation. Both sides will fancy their chances and know that maximum points from this fixture could provide a valuable cushion.
Mahanama have displayed greater structure throughout the season; however, the newcomers possess talented backs capable of scoring from anywhere on the field. Expect a tight contest and an entertaining spectacle at Police Park.
Prediction- Lumbini College win
Science College vs D.S Senanayake College
Arguably the closest fixture in the Bowl Segment this week, this match pits together two teams with contrasting styles of play.
Science College’s forward play has been a breath of fresh air this season, particularly their efficiency at the lineout. On the other hand, the Dons have looked below their best despite registering back-to-back victories.
D.S. Senanayake College may have the stronger team on paper, but current form and home conditions favour the Mount Lavinia side.
Prediction – Science College win
Cup Segment
Isipathana College vs St. Peter’s College
One of the fiercest rivalries in schools rugby reignites at Havelock Park. What has often been a league-deciding fixture in previous seasons has now become a battle to stay alive in the title race.
Both teams know that another defeat would deal a significant blow to their championship ambitions. The Green Machine hold the advantage, coming off a massive victory and backed by their passionate home crowd.
Having coached many of these players over the past few seasons, Sanath Martis will know exactly how to exploit the weaknesses of this Peterite side. For the Bamba Brigade, this match is all about redemption and getting their campaign back on track.
Prediction – Isipathana College win
Zahira College vs Wesley College
Zahira College claimed another major scalp last week, producing a tremendous comeback from a 10-point second-half deficit to defeat the previously unbeaten Peterites.
Wesley College, meanwhile, are wounded after suffering their second defeat of the campaign against Trinity College. The Double Blues have yet to hit their stride in this year’s league.
Expect this contest to be won and lost up front, with both teams heavily reliant on their forwards and set-piece dominance. Based on current form, the Tankers enter this match as favourites.
Prediction – Zahira College win
Royal College vs Trinity College
The traditional Bradby rivals lock horns for the second time this season. The Trinitians sit comfortably at the top of the league standings and will be looking to deliver another polished performance as they move six points closer to securing a second consecutive league title.
Royal College will be seeking revenge following their heavy defeat in the knockout final. Playing on home turf, they will be determined to make life as difficult as possible for the visitors.
Prediction – Trinity College win
Who will seize the early momentum in the Super Round?
Tune in to Sri Lanka’s No. 1 Sports Channel to find out. All matches go live at 3:45 p.m., with kick-off scheduled for 4:15 p.m.
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