Rain-curtailed game ends in 0-0 draw
The 3rd annual Hockey Battle of the Thomians between S. Thomas' Mt. Lavinia and Matale, for the Eric Hulangamuwa Trophy ended in 0-0 draw at Edward Park, Matale last weekend.
Played in a carnival atmosphere, the enthusiasm and support for the game was very much in abundance, with a colourful parade and a large gathering of Hockey fans.
The much anticipated 1st XI encounter for the Eric Hulangamuwa Trophy, commenced with the duration of the game reduced to 20 minutes each half. With spectator heavily in favour of the home team, the lads from Mt. Lavinia were equal to the task. Two scoreless halves inevitably produced a drawn game. Rahal Rambukpotha of STC Mt. Lavinia was awarded the Indrawansa Herath Trophy for the Best Player of the 1st XI encounter, while the Eric Hulangamuwa Trophy was shared.
The Under-16 clash commenced under dark clouds, with both teams engaged in a quick passing game as the boys from the school by the sea put more pressure. However, the weather gods had the final say at the end of the first half, with officials calling off the game at 0-0.
The Old Boys clash was played with less intensity and more camaraderie. The Old Thomians Hockey Union (OTHU) Mt. Lavinia presented a special commemorative plaque to the Matale Old Boys, which was gracefully accepted by Matale Old Thomian Ranjith Wijekoon, a distinguished national player and a former representative of the Asian team.
Wet ground conditions made the Old Boys' game slow and slippery affair. Mt. Old Boy Heshan Fernando receiving a short corner pass to the top of the 'D', beat the Matale goalkeeper to sound the board, to give Mt. Old Boys a 1-0 victory.
The grand awards ceremony was graced by a distinguished gathering including the Principals of the 2 schools, Rev. Fr. Marc Billimoria and K.A.J. Kulasooriya, along with Palitha Kohona, Anura Dissanayake, Mohan Weerakoon and representatives of the sponsors Nations Trust Bank and Ceylinco Insurance Ltd.