Malaysia – In a commendable display of skill and determination, the Sri Lankan men’s under-18 rugby team clinched third place in the Asian Under-18 Rugby Championship, defeating the host nation Malaysia 17-14 in a tightly contested playoff match held today (29th). This tournament, which featured nine teams from across Asia, provided a significant platform for young rugby talent in the region.
The championship kicked off with the teams divided into two groups: Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B’. Sri Lanka was placed in Group ‘B’ alongside Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, and Brunei. However, Brunei’s last-minute withdrawal from the tournament left Sri Lanka competing against only four teams in their group.
Sri Lanka made a strong start in the tournament, showcasing their potential. In their opening match against Thailand, they recorded a decisive 27-0 victory, demonstrating both their attacking prowess and solid defense. This momentum continued with an impressive 29-7 win over Chinese Taipei, further establishing their credentials in the tournament. A pivotal match followed against Hong Kong, where Sri Lanka managed to secure a hard-fought 17-17 draw, temporarily placing them at the top of the points table.
Due to Brunei’s withdrawal, Sri Lanka was awarded a 20-0 uncontested victory, which helped bolster their position in the group. Despite these strong performances, Hong Kong’s subsequent victory over Thailand (29-10) meant they topped the group, leading Sri Lanka to compete for third place against Malaysia, the second-placed team from Group ‘A’.
In the playoff for third place, the Sri Lankan team faced the hosts Malaysia in a gripping encounter marked by intense competition. Sri Lanka took an early lead, showcasing their aggressive style of play. Their strategic passing and strong running lines allowed them to score first, setting the tone for the match. The Malaysian team responded fiercely, scoring to level the match. However, Sri Lanka’s disciplined defense and tactical play helped them regain the lead before halftime.
The second half was a nail-biter, with Malaysia pushing hard to equalize. Despite their efforts, Sri Lanka’s defense held strong, and they managed to score another try, maintaining their lead. In the final moments, Malaysia scored again, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Sri Lanka’s advantage.
The tournament was marked by notable player performances, with the Sri Lankan squad displaying exceptional teamwork and individual brilliance. The coaching staff played a vital role in preparing the team, focusing on strategy and mental resilience, which were crucial in tight matches.
Finishing third in Asia is a significant achievement for Sri Lanka Rugby, highlighting the growth and potential of the sport in the country. This performance boosts the morale of the players and coaches and raises expectations for future competitions. The tournament serves as a platform for developing young talent, and this success could pave the way for further investments in rugby development programs.
As Sri Lanka looks ahead, there is optimism for the future of rugby in the country, with young players gaining valuable experience on an international stage. The lessons learned from this tournament will be instrumental in shaping the team’s strategy and performance in upcoming events.
