Abu Dhabi Harlequins survived a stunning second half fight-back from Dubai Hurricanes to cling onto their 100 per cent UAE Premiership record.
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The league leaders made it five straight wins with a 42-36 victory, but they had held a 42-15 advantage early in the second period.
Canes were left to rue the first 40 minutes when the damage had been inflicted, while Quins cursed complacency.
At one stage it looked as if Quins were going to run up a cricket score, Matt Smith going over for a brace of tries, while Attie Stander, Sam Bolger, Luke Stevenson and William Umu all went over the whitewash too.
Back came Canes though, with three second-half tries in a spirited showing that at least saw them pick up two bonus points. Tries for James Ham’s side came through Daryl Johnson, Chris Coupland, Kip Branch and Lindsay Fitzgerald.
“We gave ourselves a mountain to climb but we almost got to the top of it in the end,” said Canes captain Dan Perry. “The first 10-15 minutes we were just not at the races and I thought we were in for a serious hiding, but we addressed our issues, solidified and decided to go for it.
“It was just not enough in the end but credit to the lads. We’re gutted with the loss at home and shipping six tries but we got a losing bonus point and one for scoring four tries. So, going forward, it’s positive.”
Quins head coach Mike McFarlane bemoaned his side’s sloppiness, although he was nevertheless pleased to see his boys maintain their perfect start.
“We were outstanding in the first half but we were way too complacent and switched off,” he said. “It’s good to have these challenges. Dubai Exiles will be good competition, but today it was more that we just switched off after being in a commanding position.
“I don’t think anyone will come near us if we continue to play like we did in the first half.”
