NATIONAL coach George Simpkin believes Hong Kong are ready to enter a new era of expansive, open rugby which could take them to the top of the Asian ladder.
Simpkin said his 26-man squad for next month's two internationals against Taiwan contains the quality of backs who can add a new dimension to the territory's game.
The presence of newcomers Vaughan Going and Isi Tu'ivai, plus the improving form of well-established players has given Simpkin hope for the matches against Taiwan on December 7 and 11.
He added that the forwards who took part in Monday night's national trials also showed the ability to use plenty of ruck ball which helps them move up-field rather than resorting to mauls.
''We have enough new players in Hong Kong who can totally reshape the direction of rugby here.'' ''We can now play a far more expansive game because of the quality of our backs,'' said Simpkin. ''And the withdrawal through injury of a number of players brought to light a number of exciting prospects.
''It now gives us options for back line positions that we never had before.'' Simpkin said he was particularly pleased with Hong Kong Football Club scrum-half Adam Adair's performance in his unfamiliar position of fly-half and Valley's new winger Jeremy Smith.
