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Juan Belencoso hits brace in Hong Kong FA Cup final to ensure Kitchee seal the treble

Spanish striker scores twice in 2-0 FA Cup win over Eastern to complete memorable season

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Celebration time for Kitchee players after beating Eastern 2-0 in the FA Cup final at Mong Kong Stadium. Photos: K.Y. Cheng

What a difference a year makes for Kitchee striker Juan Belencoso, who atoned for his sending off in the FA Cup against Eastern last season with both goals in a 2-0 win over the same opponents on Sunday to seal a treble for his side.

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The Spanish striker's brace in extra time ensured Kitchee added the FA Cup to the inaugural Premier League title and the League Cup - the second time they have landed the treble after doing so in 2012.

"This was a good team effort," said an emotional Belencoso, who recently had his contract extended for two seasons with the champions.

This was a good team effort ... I am happy to help my club achieve the Cup victory
Kitchee striker Juan Belencoso

"I received a second yellow card in the final last year and could not play in extra time. It was a very similar situation this time, but the victory is for Kitchee."

The 33-year-old has scored 26 goals in all competitions this season but played down his chances of being named Footballer of the Year, which is announced on Monday.

"There are many quality players in Hong Kong and the Footballer of the Year is an individual honour, but for myself, I am happy to help my club achieve the Cup victory," he said.

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Eastern goalkeeper Yapp Hung-fai grabs the ball ahead of menacing Kitchee striker Juan Belencoso.
Eastern goalkeeper Yapp Hung-fai grabs the ball ahead of menacing Kitchee striker Juan Belencoso.
Both sides found it difficult to play on a slippery surface after a heavy downpour just before kick-off. With the tempo high and tackles flying in from both sides, the referee cautioned 11 players, and sent off Eastern defender Lee Chi-ho after Kitchee went into the lead on 100 minutes.
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