Al Ain Amblers quietly confident against Abu Dhabi Harlequins

Matt Jones - Editor 14:43 30/04/2015
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  • Defending champions: Abu Dhabi Harlequins (l).

    Despite hammering Dubai Sharks last week, Keleto Dyer admits his Al Ain Amblers side go into Friday’s game against reigning champions Abu Dhabi Harlequins (kick-off 19:00) with their feet firmly on the ground.

    Amblers beat Sharks 100-6 at Zayed Sport City, but Dyer knows they will more than likely have to beat Quins to have a chance of making the Cup final.

    After an eye-opening debut campaign two years ago in the Rugby League Cup, Dyer wanted his team to be competitive above all else.

    That is exactly what he has seen from his charges, who led Xodus Wasps 24-22 at half-time and 34-32 later on in their opening game before eventually losing 48-34.

    “It was a good score last week but we’re not on a high and remaining grounded,” said Dyer. “Quins are the team to beat 
    although we are quietly confident we can match them in most areas this week. We suspect we need to win to get into the Cup final but we think we can get there.”

    Dyer admits that Amblers will want to put on a show in front of their own fans at Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club.

    Quins coach Tony Scott, meanwhile, admits he is wary of the threat posed by the hosts.

    Quins are looking for their third straight win but Scott knows it will be anything but straightforward.

    “We’re very wary of Al Ain, we need to contain their forwards but if we can do that then I think our backs can run them around a bit,” he said. “They’ve showed confidence so far and we need to contain their Fijians, while they’ll also be keen playing at home.”

    Iziq Foa’i is missing for Quins, as is hooker Phil Abraham and 50-year-old veteran star Dave McRitchie.

    Brothers Ben and Sam Bolger will be vital, Malcolm Greenslade will make his season bow in the centres and Scott is also expecting “find of the season” Brian Geraghty to feature prominently.

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