Rugby Asiad 2007:

'Top-Class' Rugby on cards for 'Finals'

Ken de Joodt

Chinese Taipei made clear indications of their claim on the Asiad trophy, by showing the potential they have with a team of capable players. This was adjudged by the manner in which they sealed Thailand's fate and exit from championship honours when they lost by 16 pts. to Chinese Taipei's 27 pts. at Longdon Place on Monday.

It was convincing to see the (4) four tries scored by Chinese Taipei - which was committed to variational play, between forwards and three-quarters to do well.

Thailand's points been scored off penalties proves the point that Chinese Taipei consolidated strongly and were stout in their defence. Most certainly Chinese Taipei showed their class with better understanding and support at the right times.

They will make a strong bid for the championship and it will be a mighty clash on Wednesday 7th when they meet Kazakhstan at Longdon Place at 2.40 p.m. Kazakhstan has already shown their strength and power when they outran Thailand by 69 pts. to 21 pts. last Saturday.

In the second game, played on Monday 5th at 4.20 p.m. at Longdon Place, the speed and smooth movements of the taller and bigger Rugby-players from China, made Malaysia feel smaller and plumpier than what they really are.

What a change in the performance of the China team, from their earlier match against Sri Lanka when they lost by 28 pts to 10. It was a treat to watch the threes in full-flow and the purposeful kicking by their full back and skipper Zhang Zhi Qiang.

Here is a good example of a player, who has concentrated on his practice in kicking, timing his runs with the other threes to join in and make the extra-man in attack and been watchful in defence.

China's challenge to secure the Asiad title is still in the run and would be determined on the outcome of the Sri Lanka vs Malaysia match on Wednesday 7th at 4.20 p.m. at Longdon Place. On present form and performance - it seems obvious that Sri Lanka will win against Malaysia and thereby enter the Finals - to battle it out with either Kazakhstan or Chinese Taipei.

Whatever the outcome, the quality of Rugby has been on the upward trend - so hopes are running high that it will be a 'top-class' game in the Final on Saturday November 10th at Longdon Place (4.20 p.m.).