Abu Dhabi Harlequins coach Jeremy Manning hasn’t yet given up hope of reaching the UAE Premiership final.
Quins got their season up and running last weekend with a 26-9 win in the Abu Dhabi derby against Saracens.
The New Zealander said: “We’re a little happier this week but it’s [win over Sarries] in the past and we’ve got two massive weeks ahead.
“Two wins and who knows, maybe the final is still possible.”
Quins are missing Emirati winger Adel Al Hendi for this week’s trip to Dubai Exiles as he is on Sevens duty with the UAE, while prop Chris Jones Griffiths is away.
Jan Venter said last week’s 27-6 loss in the top-of-the-table clash against Jebel Ali Dragons was not serious and has called on his team to focus. “It’s important to remember we’ve lost only one game and have been playing well.”
He was disappointed a Gulf Top Six berth could not be banked last week but hopes to rectify that on Friday.
He said: “We believe in ourselves. The Gulf Top Six is important but we also want to be in the Premiership final. That was a target the guys set for themselves in the summer and if we don’t reach it we’ll be disappointed.”
Exiles are missing full-back Charlie Sargent (hamstring) and prop Liam Andrews (pinched nerve).
