Hong Kong got their Rugby World Cup qualification campaign underway with a 67-8 victory over Malaysia in the weekend’s Asia Rugby Championship.
With the dust settled on their opening victory, captain James Cunningham is happy with their first of four matches in this year’s tournament.
“I am really happy with how we went,” said Cunningham.
“When under pressure from Malaysia we held our composure and, although the ball got away from us a little bit at times we came back and got some points at the end which is what we were looking to do.”
A tougher test follows this weekend away in Korea, but a victory would enhance their tag as favourites to reach a play-off against the Cook Islands.
“We expect South Korea to have a strong set piece and they also like to attack from everywhere so we have to be wary of those threats,” added Cunningham.
“They also have the added power of their returning Japan-based players so we’re expecting a really tough two games against them.
“We just have to hold the ball a little better next week against Korea and hopefully everything will come together like planned.”
While they travel to Korea before their two home matches, Hong Kong have enjoyed their time in Malaysia on and off the pitch according to the captain.
“It’s been unbelievable. The boys have had a great time.
“We’ve had a great time in Kuala Lumpur, getting used to the heat has been hard. We were lucky we had a few days in Hong Kong but it’s a different level here. The boys really performed under the pressure.”
