The opening round of the UAE Conference yesterday featured “history in the making” as Al Ain Amblers First XV thrashed the Second XV 92-0.
The two sides met for the first time in a competitive match at Al Ain Amblers Rugby Club, with last season’s beaten finalists handing out a lesson to the debutants in the derby.
“The scoreline didn’t justify the competitiveness of the game,” firsts lock Aaron Kerney said. “The seconds put on a good show, conceding less penalties throughout.
“The match was history in the making.”
It was a much better night for fellow debutants Heartbeat Tigers, who came away with a 39-13 victory from their trip to Abu Dhabi Saracens Second XV.
There was disappointment for UAE Conference Cup holders Dubai Hurricanes Second XV, who conceded four unanswered tries in a 29-12 defeat to Jebel Ali Dragons Second XV.
Arabian Knights edged the Dubai Sports City derby clash with Dubai Sharks by 18-13. Sharjah Wanderers scored 36 second-half points in a 46-0 win against Xodus Wasps Second XV.
The Abu Dhabi Harlequins Second XV and Dubai Exiles Second XV tie was postponed.