Story by Lim Yong Teck/Red Sports. Photos by Matthew Lau and Clara Yuan/Red Sports
Reiner Leong (in red) of the Asia Pacific Dragons about to score his first try as he gets tackled by a Brumbies player. (Photo 1 © Matthew Lau/Red Sports)
National Stadium, Saturday, June 21, 2014 — National rugger Reiner Leong became the first Singaporean to play at the new National Stadium when he suited up for the Asia Pacific Dragons at the World Club 10s.
The inaugural World Club 10s featured eight professional rugby teams, boasting the likes of top international players such as Piri Weepu, who was part of New Zealand’s 2011 World Cup winning team. Weepu is the captain of the Blues of New Zealand. The two-day rugby festival is the first major sports event held at the new National Stadium at the Singapore Sports Hub.
Leong said, “It’s such a great honour, just going out there and being able to play for your own country.”
Leong also made history when he scored a try during the Dragons’ second match against the Brumbies of Australia.
“Goosebumps,” said Leong. “This is the first try that I’ve scored in the new National Stadium and I don’t think you have to say anymore than that. I definitely hope that there will be more, not just by me, but by every Singapore rugby player who gets to play here, that’s all I can ask for.”
The 28-year-old repeated his feat during the Dragons’ final match, scoring his second try against Italy’s Petraca Rugby.
The Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) alumnus added, “Rugby is a team sport, you only score when your team scores. I’m just happy that I was the last one to touch the ball. I hope this can encourage the local sportsmen to keep at it. When you do your best, opportunities are going to come.”
Mr Richard Seow, Chairman of Sport Singapore, said, “It is great to see a home-grown Singapore player play at this level. Clearly he was nervous to start off with, but once he got into the flow, he played really well. It is definitely wonderful for us, and wonderful for Singapore Rugby.”
Mr Lim Teck Yin, Chief Executive Officer of Sport Singapore, said, “It’s a great start for Singapore rugby. Having Reiner play at such a level helps build belief among the local boys.”
After a full day of action, the Asia Pacific Dragons hold the second spot in Pool B with a 2–1 win-loss record, trailing the Brumbies of Australia.
The two-day rugby festival continues tomorrow, June 22, 10 a.m., at the National Stadium.
For info on the World Club 10s, visit: http://worldclubtens.com/schedule/
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