Rugby matches compete with fans' antics
Despite the riveting action on the pitch, spectators are often distracted by the costumed circus on the sidelines
Scottish football manager Gordon Strachan was once asked by a reporter what areas his team could improve on. Strachan pointed to the pitch and replied: "Mainly that big green area out there …"
It's that area in the middle of Hong Kong Stadium that is also supposed to be where all the action takes place this weekend at the Sevens. But it's the antics of fans in fancy dress that can sometimes divert your attention from the exciting play.
For instance, during Hong Kong's match with Canada yesterday, in front of the South Stand, a cardinal had the Pope in a headlock while Bane (from the movie) hit him repeatedly over the head with an empty beer jug.
And herein lies the problem. The purists will say that the only thing that matters is what goes on out on the pitch where rugby legends like Jonah Lomu, Christian Cullen and David Campese wowed the fans in past years - and indeed today's players are some of the fittest and talented around.
Compare this, though, to getting hammered on beer while dressed as Wonder Woman while Madness' blares from the speakers. There's really no middle ground at times. Even the toughest prop forward with the Kowloon Pussies has divided loyalties at this shindig.
Either way, the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union couldn't be happier with the massive returns. It's one of the richest unions in Asia, if not the world.
