By Akhlaq Gazzali – 

Wesley College kicked off their Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 campaign in spectacular fashion with a resounding 63-15 win over Science College at Havelock Park on Saturday, the 7th of June. It was a commanding display from the Campbell Park outfit, who looked sharp, structured and ruthlessly clinical throughout the match.

From the very first whistle, Wesley looked hungry. Just three minutes in, Hamdan Shafraz dived over to open the scoring, and vice-captain Abdul Haadhi converted with ease. Although Science replied in the 10th minute through a penalty by skipper Dilruwan Perera, Wesley’s response was swift and punishing even after going down to 14 men when Pawan Thiranagama was sent to the sin bin.

The numerical disadvantage hardly mattered. Halfback Sharfaan Wadood, despite his smaller stature, danced past defenders for a brilliant solo effort. Tries from Nelith Hapugalle and another from Shafraz followed in quick succession. Haadhi, ever reliable with the boot, slotted all three conversions to stretch the lead.

Science College showed some fight when Damitha Hettiarachchi crossed over and Perera added the extras. But Haadhi was not done yet—he scored a try of his own just before halftime and converted it, wrapping up a dominant first half at 35-10.

Wesley didn’t ease off after the break. Manuga Jayaweera dotted down early in the second half, followed by tries from Keshara Rahul and deputy skipper Hashim Thabeeth. Jayaweera bagged his second try later on, with Fawaz Fawmy stepping up to convert in place of Haadhi, who had maintained a perfect record until then.

Science managed a late consolation through Udan Gamage, but it was far too little, too late. The game was officiated by Gihan Yatawara, with Hamdan Shafraz earning the Swisstek Perfect Player of the Match for his stellar performance.

This encounter was a clear reminder of Wesley’s firepower and potential this season. Having last faced off at the same venue in 2022—with Wesley claiming a 35-0 win—it seems the boys in Double Blue have only gotten stronger, while Science College continues to search for their first win since 2019.

Final Score: Wesley College 63 (9 tries, 9 conversions) defeated Science College 15 (2 tries, 1 conversion, 1 penalty).