Hong Kong’s Rhinos RFC is back to defend its crown in the 11th Cebu 10s International Rugby Festival against some of the country’s best clubs and other visiting clubs in the tournament’s biggest edition thus far on Nov. 11 at the Cebu International School grounds.

Rhinos RFC ended Alabang Eagles’ four-year reign in the tournament after winning the Cup Finals, 5-0, last year.

However, the Eagles, bolstered by some Philippine Volcano players, are back to reclaim its glory this year.

Among the teams that are also in the running for the crown are SKF Mavericks, Manila Nomads, Insead Singapore and Changzou Giants.

The Cebu Dragons, the host club, are also a dark horse in the tournament. Despite a disappointing third place for the Head title, the club is under new leadership in coaches Phil Campbell and Damon Wright.

Other Cebu-based clubs that are seeing action are the Lapu-Lapu Jets and USC Warriors-Kings. USC finished third in the Cup title after a 17-0 loss to the Paddy’s Pansies. The Lapu-Lapu Jets won the Head title last year with a 7-5 upset over the Manila Nomads.

The other clubs seeing action in the tournament are the Albay Vulcans, Clark Jets, Dadiangas Generals, Manila Hapons, Barbarians and rookie club Palawan Peackocks.

The Cebu Junior Dragons are also seeing action in an Under-18 division match against the Albay Vulcans junior squad. (EKA)