Hong Kong survive Sri Lankan scare

By. Shameer Jaleel

May.24 (Mirror Sports) - Hong Kong registered a hard-fought 15-14 victory over Sri Lanka in their opening Asia Rugby Top 3 encounter played at the Race Course ground.

Hong Kong scored through 2 tries, 1 conversion and 1 penalty, while Sri Lanka scored their points through 2 tries and 2 conversions.

The contest lived up to expectations as both teams produced a fast and physical game, with the result hanging in the balance until the final whistle.

Hong Kong held a slender 3-0 advantage at halftime after a fiercely contested opening period dominated by strong defence and tactical kicking.

Sri Lanka showed plenty of determination in the second half and fought back bravely with two well-worked tries.

The home side looked capable of pulling off a memorable victory as their forwards matched the visitors in the tight exchanges while the three-quarters threatened with quick attacking moves.

However, Hong Kong used their experience at crucial moments to edge ahead. The visitors crossed for two tries and added a conversion, while Sri Lanka replied with two tries and two successful conversions to keep the game alive right to the end.

Despite the narrow defeat, Sri Lanka produced a spirited display which will give them confidence heading into their remaining fixtures of the tournament. Sri Lanka has never beaten Hong Kong in a XV-a-side encounter.

Referee James Fairbourn controlled the match. Sri Lanka will lock horns with South Korea on 13 June in Incheon in their last encounter.