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Samoa's Uale Mai (L) and Lolo Lui kiss the trophy - Source: Reuters -
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Samoa defeated New Zealand 24-21 in the final of the Hong Kong Sevens to clinch their third successive IRB title and take a three-point lead in the world series.
New Zealand lead at half-time after two tries to Kurt Baker but tired quickly in the second half and only managed a consolation try to Toby Arnold at the final whistle to narrow the scoreline.
Samoan stars Mikaele Pesamino and Simaika Mikaele both grabbed a double and each team had a player sin-binned late in the first half as tensions simmered over between the arch-rivals.
Samoa now lead the world series with extra points from the HK round and have beaten New Zealand in their last four encounters.
In the semis, Baker scored four tries for New Zealand in their 33-28 win over Fiji while Samoa downed England 28-24.
In the other finals, Australia overwhelmed South Africa 12-5 to take the Plate while Canada saw off Wales 35-19 to win the Bowl and the home crowd has something to cheer about as Hong Kong beat Russia 19-17 for the Shield.
The next round of the series is in England at the end of May.
