Win and Exiles will be kings of west Asia. Lose and they will have blown a trophy they had looked destined to lift since a 25-14 victory against Doha on January 29.
Exiles will be crowned champions as long as they better second-placed Abu Dhabi Harlequins’ result, however, having lost their first game in the competition to Quins at Zayed Sports City two weeks ago there will be plenty of nerves swirling around The Sevens Friday.
For Exiles head coach, Jacques Benade, the task is simple – his side must win and start the game better than they did against Quins.
“For us we just have to go and win it, forget about bonus points or anything else, just win and then see what happens,” said the South African, who feels his team have played too well and worked too hard to let the opportunity slip through their hands right at the end.
“I can’t believe it’s the last game and such an important game as well. We just need to stay focused. It’s a massive game for the club and for the players.
“The players worked hard the whole year for this game and I just hope that they can stand on the pitch after the game on Friday night and feel proud of what they have done this year.
“It will be so disappointing if we play the way we played against Quins in the first half. We need to start strong and be ready for a physical battle.”
A 32-24 defeat to Quins last time out means Exiles remain a point ahead of Mike McFarlane’s men.
A bonus point win will guarantee the title while a win without a bonus point would still likely be enough even if Quins get a five-point win in Abu Dhabi against Bahrain due to Exiles’ superior points scored.
Benade feels any fears of complacency will have been eradicated by defeat to Quins, while he also believes his side will be fired up for a match against rivals, Canes.
“With us there’s always been a rivalry so I don’t expect them to not turn up and play,” said Benade.
“It’s a massive game. Hurricanes are playing better and better in every game and we know this will be one of the toughest games this year. They’ve been playing good rugby so the bottom line is just win.”
Canes might not have any silverware to play for but pride is just as precious for them, according to skipper Daniel Perry, who also feels Exiles will have to battle the fear of failure.
“We are looking forward to it,” said Perry. “There’s pride to play for as it’s a derby and we are going against the benchmark set by Exiles this season being the top team.
“The lads will be up for it in a game where the pressure is all on them to turn up.”
