With the Year of the Horse looming and Hong Kong residents scrambling with last minute preparations for celebrations or flocking to exotic destinations in vast numbers; a crucial Hong Kong Premier League match was played under the mild and balmy Tseung Kwan O skies.
Not necessarily a winner take all game though still vital in the grand scheme of how the rest of the HKPL season will play out as a revitalised Kitchee took on arch rivals Lee Man.
Both clubs pride themselves in being forward thinking both on and off the pitch and the results have spoken for themselves this season as the two sides occupy the top league spots.
Top of the table clashes such as this one between first and second are either blockbusters in terms of entertainment or stiflingly dull and this match edged more into the latter category with both sides cancelling each other out and failing to really gain a grip on the game.
A first half filled with half chances with the closest chance for Lee Man falling to Dudu with a close range rebound chance. Leung Hin Kit, in the Lee Man goal, made a stunning close range save from Adrian Valcarcel right at the end of the first half to keep the scores level with the Kitchee number nine and the fans in stunned disbelief at the lightning quick reactions involved to keep the ball out and the game level.
The game was settled in the 55th minute when Yumemi Kanda’s wonderful long range effort from outside the box curled into the top right hand corner. The large contingent of Kitchee fans were left in raptures while the neutrals simply applauded the audacity and beauty of the goal which hardcore Lee Man fans would be hard pressed to also admire.
Lee Man, with their array of attacking talent, pressed forward for the equaliser though in vain with Kitchee holding on for a well-earned and hard-fought 1-0 win. This victory now extends their lead over Lee Man to 12 points (1st with 38 points) with Lee Man trailing behind on 26 points.
The year of the Horse is supposed to symbolise vitality, high energy and an adventurous spirit and Kitchee will hope these characteristics follow them for the rest of the season as they race towards the league title.
