HONG KONG rugby faces its biggest challenge - in every sense - in the Pacific Rim Championship when the team comes up against the United States at the Hong Kong Stadium at 4 pm today.
Not only will Hong Kong's opponents have a size advantage, but the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union has taken a punt by playing the game on a Sunday in the hope of drawing a big crowd to the 40,000-seater showpiece stadium.
Physically the American Eagles are taller and bigger than the territory's best. In the lineout they have tall timber in the form of locks Luke Gross (2.04 metres) and Alec Parker (1.97 metres).
The American scrum will outweigh Hong Kong by 75 kilograms, more than nine kilograms per player.
The territory's front-row, who did well to hold Canada in the scrums will once again have another battle on their hands.
Hong Kong's performance in the set pieces will have a huge impact on the proceedings.
Primary possession will be crucial in this game. One can't expect this Hong Kong side to conjure up victory if they have to scrounge around for the ball.