While speculation persists over the future of the unloved Sapling Cup, the rookie coaches of Lee Man and Southern meeting in Thursday’s final could have their long-term futures determined by it.
For either interim Southern boss Calvin Pui Ho-wang or Lee Man’s caretaker manager, Chu Siu-kei, victory at Mong Kok Stadium would deliver the first silverware of their coaching career.
Pui stepped up from his assistant role following the resignation of Yeung Ching-kwong in January.
“I never expected it, but when Ching-kwong left, I had no choice but to accept the challenge,” Pui said. “There was a transition while the players adapted to my coaching and playing styles, and reaching the final is a reward for their hard work, and their belief and trust in me.”
He said memories of Southern’s 2-0 final win over Lee Man in 2023 – for the club’s solitary major honour – would provide a psychological boost, especially for striker Stefan Pereira, 37, who scored both goals in that match.
“A lot of fans and other people talk about his age and I know he wants to prove in the final that he is still one of the best goalscorers in Hong Kong,” Pui said.
