Sri Lanka scramble to 22-14 win over spirited Philippines in Asian Games rugby opener.BY TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE. (ELanka Sports Editor)
Sri Lanka regathered their composure and edged out the fighting Philippines in their opening encounter 22-14 in Aichi- Nagoya, who Japan.
Things were pretty even in the first half as a troubled Sri Lanka coach Fazil Marija readily admitted that they were untidy in their work ethic and needed to address the morass of mistakes of game one as the tournament progresses.
After a tied half, 7-7, Sri Lanka managed to wrest the lead by running in three tries to one by the Philippines as they held off a spirited challenge to scamper to victory.
Tries from Chatura Soysa (2) skipper Srinath Sooriyabandara and Janidu Dilshan sealed victory though unconvincing fir a team with high profile in the Sevens circuit.
In the other games, all the favourites got through without incident.
Meanwhile, in game two, Sri Lanka bounced back to beat Singapore 33-17 showing signs they have addressed their problems from game one.
