Controversial Heartbreak at Havelock: Wesley Falls Just Short Against Isipathana
July 21, 2025
Controversial Heartbreak at Havelock: Wesley Falls Just Short Against Isipathana
By Adib Azwer–
The second round of the schools rugby league kicked off with a clash of giants, Wesley College vs Isipathana College, and it was everything but predictable.
Wesley started strong, dominating early play and earning a penalty that Abdul Haadhi slotted through with ease, putting them up 3–0. Isipathana countered with aggression, but Wesley’s defense was unbreakable. Tensions flared when the Isipathana skipper twice poked Naham in the eye, a clear red card by World Rugby standards, yet the referee brandished only yellow.
That moment set the tone.
Still, Wesley held firm. Kaizer Lye’s turnover magic and a string of high-pressure attacks resulted in a beautiful try, finished by Kaizer himself. Haadhi added the extras — 10–0.
But champions don’t go down easy. Isipathana struck back with a try from a lineout maul just before halftime — 10–5.
The second half turned into a tactical arm wrestle. Isipathana edged ahead with a penalty (10–8), then found their rhythm and scored again, stretching their lead to 18–10. But Wesley refused to break.
Nelith Hapugalle brought life back into the stands, dotting down a crucial try and bringing it to 18–17. Pathana replied with another penalty — 21–17.
Then came the moment.
Final minute. Wesley on the charge. A maul powers over the try line, but the ref calls it back. No try. Controversy hangs heavy in the air.
Isipathana wins a final penalty, kicks to touch, and it’s heartbreak for Wesley. A match that could’ve gone either way ends 21–17 to Pathana.
Was this Wesley’s toughest test yet? Undoubtedly.
Did they fall short? Maybe.
But one thing is clear, Wesley fought like warriors.
Now, the equation is simple: win every remaining game to keep the dream alive.
No room for error. No room for doubt.
Only belief.
#UnfinishedBusiness
