Henry Paul aiming for silverware at Jebel Ali Dragons

Matt Jones - Editor 06:03 21/07/2016
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  • New Jebel Ali Dragons coach Henry Paul and assistants.

    Henry Paul is preaching patience as he attempts to return Jebel Ali Dragons to greatness, although the New Zealander is adamant success is very much the end goal.

    The 42-year-old touched down in the UAE this week and was straight into action, taking his first two training sessions at the Jebel Ali Centre of Excellence on Monday and Wednesday night.

    Henry, who enjoyed massive success as a dual code rugby international with both the Kiwis in league and England in union, is aware he has a big task on his hands with Dragons, although he insists he is here to get them firing again.

    “It’s all about silverware and trying to win stuff. That brings with it  a lot of pressure but you play sport to win,” said Paul, who despite an envious career as a player has also earned plenty of plaudits as a coach.

    Paul, who was assistant coach to former Wales international Kingsley Jones who led Russia at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, added: “It’s going to be a long road ahead but obtaining silverware is where we want to be. There has to be a final destination.”

    With the stature he holds in the world of rugby, it would be easy to expect Paul to charge in and claim he can instantly bring back the glory days for Dragons, but the Tokoroa native is pragmatic.

    “I’m not going to say anything about what we’ll do this season – other than we’re going to give 100 per cent,” he said. “I’ve no idea of the strength of other teams so it would be disrespectful to suggest otherwise, especially with the fact the spine of the successful Dragons teams from years ago has gone.

    “Everyone is on the same wave- length, everyone wants to get busy and now we’re going to work hard as a team.”

    It’s been a whirlwind start to his tenure, especially arriving in the scorching summer, but Paul has been encouraged by what he’s seen at his first week of practice, attended by more than 50 players.

    He said: “There’s differing levels of ability. We’re trying to build up some team spirit initially, which is key, and then the quality will come through later. We’ve got seven weeks until our first game and by that time I’ll hopefully get the first team organised into a group of 30.”

    Joining Paul’s coaching staff are former Arabian Gulf and Scotland sevens international Jonny MacDonald as backs coach. Ex-Newcastle Falcons player Andy Buist, meanwhile, who played several games for Dragons towards the end of last season, is forwards coach.

    “I’ve come in to instill a bit of consistency. We’ve got a proper coaching structure in place this year,” added Paul.

    “I know Andy. He’s upbeat, very experienced and I’m relying on him to work on our set-pieces. Jonny is very smart and very keen and although we’re obviously still learning I think we’re seeing some benefits already.”

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