HAPPY Valley were kicking themselves yesterday for failing to finish off arch-rivals South China despite being presented with the lion's share of chances in a 1-1 draw at Hong Kong Stadium.
Happy Valley had gone into the match confident of grabbing the points, but their First Division campaign got off to an awkward start as South China shared the spoils in a match attended by the lowest crowd for a league opener since the professional era started 30 years ago.
Happy Valley midfielder Kwok Man-tik put his side ahead in the 24th minute after burying his effort following fine work down the right by Lo Kai-wah.
South China equalised in the 55th minute following a glancing header from forward Au Wai-lun.
But South China's administration director Peter Leung Shou-chi admitted luck was on the Caroliners' side after Happy Valley finished the match the better team.
'We really should have lost the game. We held on for a draw which is something you have to be happy with because Happy Valley took the game to us and almost won. Our fitness is still not there and I am hopeful we'll get better after getting a few games under our belts,' said Leung.
Scottish striker Paul Ritchie was first guilty for a glaring miss early in the first half for Happy Valley, but the real culprit was Nigerian forward Cornelius Udebuluzor - formerly known as Udeh Collins of now-defunct team Mansion - who was two gifted chances to break the deadlock.