Hong Kong edge out gritty SL 15/14

Monday, 25 May 2026 03:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka skipper Lasindu Karunathilaka holds on to HK players

Hong Kong registered a hard-fought 15/14 victory over Sri Lanka in their opening Asia Rugby Top 3 encounter played at the Racecourse Ground yesterday.

Hong Kong scored through two tries, one conversion, and one penalty, while Sri Lanka scored their points through two tries and two 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 have 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.