Coronavirus: Seven Hong Kong football teams left to fight it out when season resumes in August

HKFA confirms the withdrawal of Pegasus, BC Rangers and Yuen Long, with leaders R&F losing nine points and now in a tie at the top

The three clubs will not be punished because of the crisis caused by the pandemic and can return to the league next season

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Guangzhou-based R&F still lead the table but are now level with Lee Man and Southern after three teams pulled out. Photo: Twitter/@HKRffC

Published: 2:44pm, 1 May 2020Updated: 10:40pm, 1 May 2020

Seven teams will complete the season when it resumes in August, with Pegasus, BC Rangers and Best Union Yuen Long pulling out, the Hong Kong Football Association confirmed.

“This is similar to what we expected,” said association chairman Pui Kwan-kay. “We understand this is a special situation because of the interruption caused by the pandemic and we seek cooperation with individual clubs.

“But if they decide not to continue, they are allowed to do so and will not be punished. We feel sorry about their decision.”

Pui said they would discuss venue arrangements with the government’s Leisure and Cultural Services Department and, if possible, resume competition in August and finish the season in early September.

BC Rangers (in white), playing in the Sapling Cup against Kitchee, will not complete the season. Photo: Chan Kin-wa

“All stadiums are still closed due to the pandemic with no definite date for reopening,” said Pui. “But now with seven teams agreeing to compete, we know the exact number of fixtures remaining and will take it to the department for discussion.