Day Two of the Hong Kong Sevens got under way on Saturday with thousands of fans crowding into Hong Kong Stadium determined to make the most of the return of the flagship event after a three-year Covid absence.

The Hong Kong team played their part too, lifting the crowd with two first-half tries against New Zealand, although the home side were ultimately beaten 38-14. There were also wins for Ireland, Argentina, the USA, Fiji, Great Britain, France and Samoa in their first games of Day Two.

Saturday is traditionally the most raucous party day of the Hong Kong Sevens, with fans heading to the South Stand early for the on-field action and entertainment. While capacity is limited because of Covid rules and few overseas fans made it to the SAR, supporters present were in full voice, with many donning the traditional range of unusual and imaginative fancy dress.

One supporter explained his choice of a Tyrannosaurus Rex costume by saying: "It's fun. We've missed all the fun in Hong Kong. It's going to be awesome today, all the games. We've missed all the games, the food, the drinks. We all missed that atmosphere."

Asked who the T-rex was rooting for, he said he would just go with the flow.

Another spectator, clad in a Hawaiian skirt and French flag, admitted that there wasn't much logic behind his outfit besides the fact it was "really cool".

Asked to compare this year's Sevens with the 2019 event, he said: "It feels very nostalgic, 'cause I'm reminiscing on the time I came here with my father and now I'm coming back with my friends and family, and it's just a whole new vibe but it's still the same, you know.

"It's like this is where Hong Kong gathers round and comes together and has the most fun in the whole year."

By mid-afternoon, the organisers announced that the famous South Stand was at its maximum allowed capacity.
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Last updated: 2022-05-11 HKT 15:23