Having coached the University Rugby team for the past 5 weeks, Sam and I were lucky to be invited to watch them play against the University of Colombo (not only the oldest but one of the biggest universities in Sri Lanka). After a 5 hour public bus journey to the venue- escorted by one of the injured players and in the tightest seating imaginable- we eventually arrived! The team, who had travelled the previous day, were delighted to see us- especially as we were in full coach attire in accordance to their requests. Indeed as was pointed out by one of our players, the morale of the Colombo team went through the floor with the sight of two foreign rugby coaches! After last minute tactics and advice, the game commenced on what was an attractive rugby pitch and certainly a facility that Sabaragamuwa University gravely long for.

Despite the lack of a suitable training surface at Sabaragamuwa, our coaching paid huge dividends particularly in the early phases of the match, with big tackles ensuring our defence held strong. Our breakdown play was admired and with our vocal support on the sidelines the Colombo crowd were silenced. Despite some positive play and admirable team efforts, our defence was unfortunately breached in due course, leading to a disappointing loss at full time. It must be said however that had the referees known all the rules, the score line would be considerably different. Sam can back me up on that one!

After a lengthy wait for the hospitalised players to return (minor injuries!), we finally set off at around 7.15pm. Despite the result it was incredibly rewarding to see our players play a full match, knowing that they had improved considerably from day 1. Furthermore it was satisfying to talk to the players about the match on the return journey, and for them to recognise problems areas. Once these conversations had died down, a mini party was held at the back of the bus with singing and drum playing aplenty! With an arrival time of 2am back at Sabaragamuwa, we had no problems getting to sleep.