CH-Kandy clash ends in thrilling 34-all

CH & FC turned in one of their most cohesive and spirited performances of the season but were ultimately forced to settle for a pulsating 34-34 draw against defending champions Kandy Sports Club in their Super Round encounter played last evening at the Racecourse Ground.

- BY SHAMSEER JALEEL

CH winger Samitha Warnakulasooriya about to score a try

At halftime, CH held a deserved 19-17 lead after an entertaining opening half played at high intensity in trying Colombo conditions. From the outset, CH dictated tempo with sharper execution, greater urgency at the breakdown, and superior defensive organisation, while Kandy took time to settle and never fully hit top gear.

CH skipper Janidu Dilshan led superbly, producing an outstanding all-round display. His work rate, defensive solidity, and ability to breach the Kandy line repeatedly set the tone for CH’s dominance. The forwards complemented this effort well, with the powerful Fijian No. 8 Koli Thamanikalu making a telling impact with strong carries and control at the base, along with Janith Chandimal too shining.