Jebel Ali Dragons coach Ross Mills has revealed that the secret to his side’s treble-winning season lies in putting his trust in the club’s senior players.
The Dragons saw off Abu Dhabi Harlequins 32-11 at Zayed Sports City on Friday to win the ARFU West Asia Champion Club (WACC) final for the second year running.
The victory was their fifth in five finals meetings with Quins in the last two seasons and also means they have successfully defended all three trophies they won last season.
Mills took over coaching duties from Shane Thornton at the beginning of the season and conceded it was a difficult task replacing the Kiwi, who had just led the club to UAE Premiership, sevens and WACC silverware.
“It was very tough to come in. I was asked that question before Christmas and I said I felt like Rafa Benitez when he joined Inter Milan after Mourinho had won the treble,” Mills explained.
“I had to respect the players. The players won because of them, they didn’t win because of me. I guide them but when they’re on the field there’s nothing I can do, it’s all down to them.”
Mills also admitted he had doubts about whether he was the right man for the role during a Gulf Top Six campaign that saw the Dragons lose four times, and their coach spend increasing amounts of time in Qatar on business.
He added: “I’m my biggest critic and there have been times during the Gulf Top Six campaign when I thought am I the right man for the job? Am I doing the right things?”
However, the Englishman was “chuffed” to secure a thrilling victory. And is he hopeful he will be given the chance to lead the Dragons next season.
“I would like to keep going yes, but we have an AGM in a couple of weeks and I’m sure the club will take into account what’s gone on this year,” he said.
“It’s just a massive season, I think that it’s the first time a team has done it – a back-to-back treble.”
