Royal's defence stands tall to regain Bradby Shield

ROYAL College weathered a fierce onslaught from Trinity College to regain the 75th Bradby Shield on an aggregate score of 18/13 despite going down 3/8 in the second leg played in-front of a packed Royal College Sports Complex on Saturday.

- By SHAMSEER JALEEL

At the short breather it was Trinity Lions who led 5/0.

It was a bruising encounter that showed the very essence of Bradby rugby passion, intensity, and fine margins. Trinity threw everything at Royal, but the Reid Avenue lads stood firm, their defence was out of this world ultimately proving decisive.

Trinity began in electrifying fashion. Just three minutes in, their powerful prop, Achintha Jayasena barged over from close range to put the visitors ahead. It was the start the Lions desperately needed, but the conversion attempt by Sadeesha Weerawansa was surprsingly off target as Trinity took a 5/0 early lead.

Royal, momentarily rattled, had chances to steady themselves. However, fly half, Shemak Shafeek missed three penalty kicks in quick succession. Those missed opportunities left Royal still searching for points, while Trinity grew in confidence.