McFarlane proud to see Quins stay perfect

Matt Jones - Editor 05:20 08/10/2016
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  • Answering back: Luke Stevenson.

    Mike McFarlane said Abu Dhabi Harlequins dispelled any suggestions they would “choke” at capital city rivals Saracens with a hard-fought 20-13 win in the ‘Capital Cup’ on Thursday to maintain their perfect start to the season.

    Sarries head coach Winston Cowie had poked the bear before the game by dangling Sarries’ 25-10 win at Al Ghazal in the West Asia Championship above their Zayed Sports City rivals – singling out fly-half Luke Stevenson – but he and Quins answered emphatically.

    “We certainly showed that any perceived ‘choking’ at Al Ghazal has been put behind us with everyone showing the outstanding culture we have as a squad and a club,” said McFarlane. “It was fantastic to see Stevenson continue his fine form with a man-of-the-match performance.

    “It was a tenacious game but we didn’t expect anything else. Whilst we might not have played at full tilt, we got the job done and we are happy with the result.”

    Counterpart Cowie described the encounter as a “belter” and saw plenty of promise in his own team – who had so far seen a 45-3 win against Al Ain Amblers wiped out and a depleted side trounced 37-7 in Doha last week.

    “Playing arguably the form side of the competition in what was effectively our second game together we are not far off. There’s lots to be positive about.” said the New Zealander. “The group are hurting but the eye is firmly on Jebel Ali Dragons next week.

    “We’ll have the head down working hard. We’ve got a great bunch of guys who are so keen to do well. The start hasn’t been ideal but we are all enjoying it. A huge game at Jebel Ali next week to make a statement and get on the ladder. Onwards.”

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