Sri Lanka, Jan. 13 -- Defending champions CR and FC held off a fierce challenge from Air Force Sports Club to secure a hard-fought 27-16 victory in their Mastercard 'A' Division League Rugby Tournament Week 5 match at the Air Force Grounds in Ratmalana yesterday.

The Red Shirts led 12-6 at halftime after a tense first half. CR and FC scored two goals, two tries, and one penalty, while Air Force managed one goal and three penalties.

Air Force flyhalf Gayantha Iddamalgoda opened the scoring with a penalty in the 23rd minute, putting his team ahead 3-0. CR and FC quickly responded in the 30th minute when scrum half Viduna Amaneth scored an unconverted try after a quick tap, giving them a 5-3 lead.

Iddamalgoda put Air Force back in front w...