Late Doha drama proves costly for Exiles

Martyn Thomas 10:48 18/02/2014
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  • Held up: Exiles (dark blue) had to settle for a dramatic draw in Doha.

    Dubai Exiles remain unbeaten in the Gulf Conference but their draw in Doha could prove costly come the season’s end.

    The Exiles were denied a third straight win last Friday as Doha scored with the final play in Qatar to snatch a 22-22 draw.

    The result leaves Jan Venter’s side five points adrift of neighbours Xodus Wasps, who they host on Thursday night, although they do have a game in hand.

    “It’s going to be hard work for the simple reason Wasps picked up two bonus points. That means they’re on 16 points and we have 11 with the draw. I would have felt much more comfortable if we won against Doha,” Venter said of the Exiles’ title chances.

    “There’s a long way to go still, we’ve got them next and if we win that one but don’t pick up a bonus point we are still going to be a point behind.”

    Venter is confident ahead of the clash at 7he Sevens on Thursday, however.

    “Obviously I believe and I’m going there to win the game,” the South African coach added.

    Venter was only able to name 19 players in his squad for the game against Doha due to visa issues but he refused to use that as an excuse for not being able to hang on. Venter, who had No8 Janco Fourie sin-binned late on, said: “No, I wouldn’t like to say that [visa issues were to blame for the loss]. It was hot as well, so it always helps to have a full bench of replacements but I wouldn’t say that was the reason. Doha played well.”

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