The 12th edition of the MCKK Premier 7’s Rugby Championship launched with a bang today, featuring electrifying matches and intense competition. The host team, The Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK), faced off against Sekolah Menengah Sains Sultan Mahmud (SESMA) in a thrilling opener, setting the stage for a weekend packed with top-tier rugby action. This year’s tournament features 24 elite teams and runs from June 28 to June 30, 2024.

The atmosphere was electric as MCKK took the field for their first match against SESMA. The home team wasted no time, scoring a try moments after kickoff, and added another before halftime, leading 10-0. However, SESMA roared back in the second half, leveling the score with two tries and creating a nail-biting finish. The match ended in a 10-10 draw, showcasing the resilience and skill of both teams.

Coach Mohd Romli Saad of MCKK remained upbeat: “We started strong and dominated early on. Although we lost focus in the second half, allowing SESMA to catch up, I’m confident in our ability to improve and excel in the upcoming matches.”

The day’s action began with a dramatic clash between Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yahya Petra (SSYP1) and Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi Kuantan (INTEK). In a game full of twists and turns, INTEK snatched victory with a last-minute try, winning 17-12 against SSYP1.

In Group B, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Telok Mas (AKRAM) showcased their dominance against Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Sheikh Hj Othman Abdul Wahab (SHOAW). AKRAM’s relentless attack resulted in three tries, securing a decisive 15-0 victory.

Group C featured Victoria Institution (VI) against Sekolah Dato’ Abdul Razak (SDAR). SDAR’s swift and powerful gameplay left VI struggling to keep pace. SDAR capitalized on every opportunity, securing a resounding 31-0 victory, leaving VI with no chance to score.

An SDAR player (red and yellow jersey) throws the ball to a teammate despite being tackled by a VI player during the Group C match which ended in a convincing win of 00 – 31 for SDAR.

In Group D, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan King Edward VII (KEVII) took on Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan ABI (ABI). Despite their best efforts, KEVII couldn’t break through ABI’s solid defense. ABI excelled in the first half with a try and a conversion and maintained their lead, concluding the match with a 12-0 victory.

The final opener of the day in Group F saw Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan HOSBA (HOSBA) clash with Sekolah Tunku Abdul Rahman (STAR). HOSBA dominated the match, scoring two conversions and two tries. STAR managed to secure one conversion towards the end, but HOSBA emerged victorious with a convincing 26-7 win.

As the MCKK Premier 7’s Rugby Championship 2024 progresses, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. With elite teams competing, the stage is set for a weekend of high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled rugby action. Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling matches in the days to come.

MATCH DAY 1 RESULTS

SSYP1 [ 12 – 17 ] INTEK
AKRAM [ 15 – 00 ] SHOAW
VI [ 00 – 31 ] SDAR
KEVII [ 00 – 12 ] ABI
MCKK [ 10 – 10 ] SESMA
HOSBA [ 26 – 07 ] STAR