Quins remain unbeaten with win over Hurricanes

Matt Jones - Editor 20:31 14/01/2017
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  • Mike McFarlane’s men came up against a much-improved Dubai Hurricanes at Zayed Sports City, who promoted Mike Wernham from forwards coach to head coach during the Christmas break.

    Despite remaining unbeaten as the West Asia Premiership resumed, Quins have certainly been tested this season. They were 15-0 down to Bahrain in the last game before Christmas before coming back to sneak a 17-15 victory.

    They also edged Dragons 31-30 in November and were held 23-23 at home by Doha at the end of October.

    McFarlane was pleased with maintaining the momentum, even if his players were left disappointed.

    “The boys are frustrated but came across a strong Canes team,” said McFarlane.

    “I think we lacked a bit of composure at times and have some areas to work on but we got the win which keeps us unbeaten this season and also preserves our home record.

    “The boys are disappointed but only because they set themselves such high standards. I think Canes will really trouble teams in the remaining fixtures and I wish Mike all the best.”

    Wernham said his side put in a performance worthy of the Canes jersey.

    “Following the result and performance from Doha we were looking for a response from the squad,” he said.

    “Before the match I don’t think anyone would have given us a chance against this strong Quins squad which are thoroughly deserving of being top of the league.

    “I think we gave a much better account of what Hurricanes are all about. We’re leaving thinking we could have definitely won. We put up a few fights and are leaving with a losing bonus point.

    “I’m delighted to see us moving on from the Doha game. We’ve got a lot more work to do and what we’re looking at now is the next level from every player, to be competing in every minute and every second of every game.

    “What we’ve got ahead of us is a big task and we want to be bullish and for every player to have a different mindset. It won’t come overnight but we have a lot of talent, great attitudes and the squad continue to improve. We’re never pleased to lose but we’re taking steps forward.”

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