Moment of truth as South China, Sing Tao players hit the track

South China and Sing Tao management are keeping their fingers crossed that their key players can pass the fitness test today.

Nine South China players, including Hong Kong Footballer of the Year Au Wai-lun, national winger Lee Kin-wo and star midfielder Leslie Santos, and three Sing Tao players - national midfielder Chiu Chung-man, veteran midfielder Pedro Xavier and defender Marlon Van Der Sander - all failed their first mandatory test.

But if they fail this evening, they will have a third and final chance, according to a new Hong Kong Football Association ruling.

Golden players Wong For-muk and Chan Sui-nin, who could not pass the first test, are also expected to retake the test today.

Young South China midfielder Yeung Ching-kwong, who missed the previous test because of injury, former Arsenal defender Gus Caesar, who has recently joined Sing Tao, and Yee Hope's Wan King-leung will be taking their first test.

Meanwhile, seven players passed the test yesterday, including Happy Valley's 37-year-old goalkeeper Peter Guthrie.