The women’s rugby team of Hong Kong has achieved an outstanding accomplishment by securing a place in the global WXV3 tournament after emerging victorious in their Asia Rugby Championship match against Kazakhstan. This triumph not only earned them a second-place position in the championship but also kept their aspirations alive for qualifying for the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England.
Guided by head coach Royce Chan Leong-sze, the Hong Kong team showcased their mastery on the field by scoring three unanswered tries to clinch a 22-0 victory over Kazakhstan. This win has been hailed as one of the most momentous triumphs in the team’s 26-year history.
Prior to the pivotal match, head coach Chan orchestrated a surprise visit from families and friends to the team hotel for a jersey presentation, which lifted the morale of the players and inspired them to deliver their best performance on the field. The ambiance was described as heartfelt and celebratory, with wing player Zoe Smith expressing her gratitude for the support and highlighting the impact it had on the team’s performance.
The match itself was a demonstration of Hong Kong’s dominance, particularly in the scrum and line-out. It took 22 minutes for the team to secure their first score, with Chong Ka-yan making a decisive breakthrough and Smith’s conversion adding to their lead. As the match progressed, Smith’s penalty further extended the team’s advantage.
Following their victory, Smith conveyed her enthusiasm about the opportunity to compete in the WXV3 tournament, which will feature teams from various nations including Fiji, Madagascar, Netherlands, and Samoa. This marks a historic moment for Hong Kong as it signifies their first qualification for the WXV3 competition. With their sights set on the long-term goal of participating in the Rugby World Cup, the team acknowledged the pressure they faced but credited their ability to channel it in a positive manner.
Looking forward, head coach Chan stressed the significance of their qualification for the WXV3 tournament and underscored the potential for World Cup qualification in the future. The team’s performance in the championship also highlighted a notable improvement in their set-piece over the past year, attributed to the collective efforts of the coaching staff and the competitive spirit fostered by new members in the team.
As the team celebrates their success at home, Smith expressed her joy at achieving this milestone in front of their supporters and described the jersey presentation as a poignant and meaningful moment for the team. The journey to this achievement has been filled with hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of their families, friends, and fans.
In conclusion, the triumph of the Hong Kong women’s rugby team over Kazakhstan not only secured them a place in the WXV3 tournament but also denoted a significant milestone in their pursuit of reaching the Rugby World Cup. The team’s exceptional performance and unwavering determination have solidified their position as a formidable force in the world of women’s rugby.