By Chris McAsey
The Hong Kong Dragons have won their first Asian Championship since 2015 with a dominant performance against Singapore in the Men’s Division 1 Grand Final. The Dragons kept Singapore scoreless in the Grand Final, no mean feat on a lush deck at the Thai Polo Escape in Chon Buri.
Hong Kong’s talls at both ends were a deciding factor in the win, with tournament leading goalkicker Sam Agars a huge presence in the Dragon’s forward half.
Agars got Hong Kong off to a flyer with two goals in the opening minutes – the first a big contested mark and the second after a strong lead.
Both teams were fully committed and it was high quality footy in the sweltering heat, but Hong Kong’s midfield was winning at the coalface and gave their forwards multiple opportunities.
Agar was involved again after bringing the ball to ground for elusive forward Tom Neville to snap a goal. Hong Kong’s third goal gave them a 21 point lead at half time.
Singapore came out firing in the second half and trapped the ball in their forward half early, but Hong Kong’s defence was up to the task. Their quick rebound off half back set up Agar again, who took another contested grab but his shot went wide, leaving the door slightly ajar for Singapore.
Buzzy forward Luke Colbran snapped truly to increase the lead for Hong Hong, before a great tackle in defence set up another goal for Neville to seal the deal.
Hong Kong’s system was impressive all throughout the competition and there has obviously been a power of work by coaches and players to prepare for the Champs.
Hong Kong eventually ran out winners by 43 points, with Agar named Grand Final Best Player.
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