Hong Kong hold World Cup destiny in their hands – ‘the pressure is on Korea to come and play’
Victory in the Asia Rugby Championship is within reach for Leigh Jones’ men and the coach says they are ‘champing at the bit’
Hong Kong are ready to live up to expectations in the Asia Rugby Championship this weekend against a South Korea side that coach Leigh Jones says is under pressure “to come and play”.
Needing only a bonus point to win the tournament, Hong Kong are in the box seat to progress to the next stage of World Cup 2019 – a home and away series against Cook Islands – but must keep their momentum rolling with a huge year ahead.
“Only a win will do,” said Jones. “The pressure is on Korea to come and play now, so that’s the good thing. That’s what last week [a 91-10 win over Malaysia] was about. But we know it’s going to be a tough game and we need to respect what Korea are about.”
Jones can sense a killer instinct within his squad, praising the players for taking ownership of their destiny.
“It’s been very much player-led and they are really champing at the bit to get at Korea,” he said. “We’re pumped and ready to go for this. The boys have been a pleasure to coach this week. I’ve had very little to do, as have the other coaches.”
Hong Kong are battling injuries to a number of key players, including dynamic backs Ben Rimene and Tyler Spitz, but Jones knows he has more than enough firepower to keep the winning run going.