The top two in the UAE Premiership meet this Friday with both coaches pinpointing a third win which will guarantee Gulf Top Six qualification.
Dubai Hurricanes and Jebel Ali Dragons are the only two teams left with a 100 per cent record, so something has to give this weekend.
It’s a big game and Exiles head coach Jan Venter said his side are ready.
“I can guarantee my guys will be up for it and I’m sure Dragons will be up for a fight,” he said.
Venter reiterated the view that the Premiership is much stronger this season, saying: “There’s been some very interesting results; in the past as soon as you won two games you were in the Gulf Top Six, now you have to win three so it’s crunch time for us on Friday.”
The South African is pleased his side has more strength in depth this season, particularly as centre Justen Pelsar is out for a few months with a torn ACL.
Dragons coach Murray Strang said: “It’s refreshing to be playing Exiles at the top of the table, as most have considered us, Hurricanes and Harlequins to be the leading teams in recent years.
“I’ve heard lots of good things about their game, they have a dangerous back line and that points towards an exciting game of rugby with hopefully some tries scored.”
Strang hinted at one or two changes.
“There were some good performances off the bench and some players have put their hands up for selection, so that’s maybe given us a bit of a selection headache, but a good one,” he said.
Meanwhile, in the night’s other game, Dubai Hurricanes meet Xod-us Wasps.
Wasps director of rugby Martin Southern said optimism remains high at the club, although he admitted it’s results that count.
Canes coach Ross Mills has warned his players against complacency, ordering them to show Wasps the respect they deserve. He says he will not make “rash decisions” on the back of the 19-15 loss to Sarries.
