Hong Kong men’s team lifted the Asia Rugby Men’s Sevens Series UAE 7s 2022 trophy after putting up a spectacular performance against hosts UAE, beating them 21-5. In the women’s segment, China emerged victorious over the gritty Japanese side with a score line of 21-14.
The second runners-up spots were secured by Japan and Thailand in men’s and women’s competitions, respectively. The series was held at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club in UAE on November 26-27, 2022.
Hong Kong was announced as the undisputed champions over the weekend in UAE as they displayed their A-game and dominated the men’s side.
A young UAE side impressed throughout the tournament and was able to secure in their first cup final spot at the Asia Rugby Men’s Sevens Series.
Hong Kong attacked early in the final match against the UAE and secured a comfortable 14-0 lead before halftime.
The score remained unchanged for a better part of the second half, changing only to tilt in the winners’ favour eventually. UAE kept its ground and fought till the end, displaying immense character, and scoring a solitary try before the final hooter.
UAE Speedster Tobias did not disappoint when he converted a brilliant run from the right wing into a try. At full-time, Hong Kong celebrated a 21-5 victory over the hosts.
On the other hand, short on making the final, Japan men’s team concluded their campaign with a third-place finish over China, 33-21.
In the women’s event, China presided over Japan in a gripping final, winning 21-14. China capitalized on a loose defense from Japan in the starting minutes of the women’s final match and continued to attack throughout the game.
Even as Japan attempted a stupendous comeback, it fell short by one try. In the third-place match for women’s, Thailand clinched a rousing 24-10 victory over Hong Kong.
At the end of the two-day Asia Rugby Sevens Series UAE 7s 2022 event, Jeongmin Jang of South Korea and Sayo Yasui of Japan won the individual bragging rights as tournament top try scorers in men’s and women’s competitions, respectively.
The closing ceremony was presided over by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum – President of the UAE Rugby Federation. His Excellency Qais Abdulla Al-Dhalai President of Asia Rugby .His Excellency Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajri the Director General of Al Ain Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution His Excellency Mohammed Rashid Al Nasiri the General Manager of Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting And Golf Club His Excellency ZHANG Yiming ambassador for the People’s Republic of China to the United Arab Emirates.
Source: Asia Rugby
