INTENSE ACTION MARKS DAY 1 OF THE MCKK PREMIER 7'S 2024 RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

The 12th edition of the MCKK Premier 7's Rugby Championship launched with a bang, 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 28 to 30 June 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 kick-off and adding another before half-time to lead 10-0. However, SESMA roared back in the second half, levelling 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.

MCKK coach Mohd Romli Saad 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 in Group A with a dramatic clash between Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Sultan Yahya Petra 1 (SSYP1) and Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi Kuantan (INTEK). In a game full of twists and turns, INTEK snatched victory with a last-minute try to win 17-12.

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 produced three tries for a decisive 15-0 victory.

Group C featured Victoria Institution (VI) against Sekolah Dato' Abdul Razak (SDAR). SDAR's swift and powerful play left VI struggling to keep pace, and they capitalised on every opportunity to secure a resounding 31-0 victory.

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 defence. ABI scored a converted try in the first half and held their lead, finishing 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 Tuanku Abdul Rahman (STAR). HOSBA dominated the match, and although STAR managed a converted try towards the end, HOSBA emerged 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-fuelled 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 – 0 SHOAW

VI 0 – 31 SDAR

KEVII 0 – 12 ABI

MCKK 10 – 10 SESMA

HOSBA 26 – 7 STAR