Gritty defensive effort earns HKCC a second successive Premiership title

Leighton Asia HKCC were crowned HKRFU Premiership champions after pulling off a magnificent defensive performance that earned them a narrow 12-7 victory over Societe Generale Valley at Happy Valley on Saturday.

Valley had 80 per cent of territory and more than three-quarters of the possession yet they somehow managed to bungle it to present Hong Kong Cricket Club with their second successive league triumph and their fifth in nine seasons.

"The guys put their hearts out there today and I'm really proud of them," said HKCC head coach Deacon Manu. "We knew defence was going to be a large part of our game and they stood up and kept believing."

HKCC's determined defence saw them push the law book to the limit as evidenced by a penalty try to Valley in the second half after the referee, who had delivered numerous warnings, awarded a try.

Valley, trailing 12-0 at half-time, had been camped on their opponent's try-line for almost 30 minutes before coming away with this consolation try.

Valley head coach Jack Isaac was diplomatic, but could not hide his frustrations.