Second half burst too much for Sri Lanka

By M. Shamil Amit
Sri Lanka succumbed to a 32-7 defeat against Hong Kong after an impressive second half burst by the winner in a Singer ARFU JWRT Asian Qualifier rugby match played at the Race Course ground yesterday.
Sri Lanka fought brilliantly in the first half restricting the mighty Hong Kong players for a slender 10-7 lead but three tries within a space of eight minutes in the early stages of the second session saw Hong Kong stealing a comfortable win. They made up their points through three goals, a try and two penalties to a goal scored by Sri Lanka. Hong Kong drew first blood in the eighth minute through winger Eric Kwok before Sri Lanka skipper Tarinda Ratwatte missed a penalty two minutes later.  Sri Lanka  however equalized when centre Kevin Dixon burst through the Hong Kong defense to score under the post giving Tarinda an easy kick at goal. Ten minutes away from the short whistle full back Stiles helped Hong Kong to take the lead when he booted over a penalty for them to lead 10-7 at lemons.
A close tussle was expected on resumption but it was not so as three ties in the third, fifth and 11th minute by scrum half Mathew Worley saw Hong Kong taking an easy win. Sri Lanka must beat Chinese Taipei on Saturday to avoid being demoted. Referee – Moris Butler (UAE)
Chinese Taipei record first win
Chinese Taipei recorded their first win of the Asian Qualifier rugby tournament with a comfortable 24-7 win over South Korea in the other match which was played at the same venue. Chinese Taipei having taken a 12-0 lead at the breather accumulated their points through two goals and two tries as against to the goal scored by South Korea.