McFarlane believes Quins are getting stronger

Matt Jones - Editor 20:31 31/01/2017
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  • Top form: Abu Dhabi Harlequins.

    Quins’ 29-10 victory in the Abu Dhabi derby against Saracens was their ninth triumph of the season, the only thing blotting a perfect record a 23-23 draw with Doha in October.

    Despite being clear favourites to claim both the WAP and UAE Premiership titles this season, McFarlane’s men have come through some serious tests – in particular the Doha stalemate.

    They also overcame Sarries (20-13, October 6), Jebel Ali Dragons (the 31-30, November 3), Bahrain (17-15, December 16) and Dubai Hurricanes (24-19, January 13) by a total margin of just 15 points.

    However, having come through all those examinations, McFarlane feels they are getting stronger each time.

    “In the huddle afterwards players continued to drive on claiming they have gears left to go and put that perfect performance in,” said McFarlane following Thursday’s victory at Zayed Sports City.

    “It’s great to see so many talented rugby players playing at the top of their game.”

    An ominous sign for the teams hoping to catch Quins is that McFarlane feels the Sarries win was one of their best of the season so far.

    “As always it was a fierce rival game which brought two good sides together,” he added.

    “It was one of our most complete performances in terms of structure in which we executed both fast and slow ball plays.

    “The speed of the game was phenomenal and relentless, alongside being a brushing encounter, one which the pack were proud to dominate. The backs offered electric attacks which at times were uncontainable.”

    There are no WAP games this weekend and the week after Quins have a bye, but their next encounter on February 17 promises to be their biggest test to date as they head to Doha, who are in second place in the standings.

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