UAE face relegation clash with Kazakhstan

Dubai: UAE coach Duncan Hall has highlighted this weekend's Asian Five Nations relegation decider against Kazakhstan as "the time to put theory into practice" following humiliating defeats to Hong Kong (85-10) and Japan (106-3).

With newly-promoted dark horses South Korea beating Hong Kong 21-19 last weekend, the UAE's chances of survival shouldn't all be pegged on their last match in Seoul on May 26, according to Hall, putting enormous pressure on tomorrow's clash with the physical Kazakhs at The Sevens Stadium.

Hall, who has made just four changes to his starting XV from last weekend, said: "The A5N draw to face Hong Kong and Japan in the first two weeks [without rest] was playing to achieve wins against impossible odds.

No excuses

"We've played under enormous pressure, that has led to mistakes on the field during this campaign.

"We have no excuses and have gained valuable experience. The next match against Kazakhstan is now our time to use these experiences and play with high expectations.

"We have prepared to deliver confident, effective combinations and, being exposed to playing by far the best two sides in Asia [early in the campaign], has united the players more on and off the field."

Hall added: "To move forward we need to build on what we have available. We don't [currently] have the luxury of a deep talent pool. I am proud of the commitment and attitude that has come through in many of the players, particularly over the past two weeks — these players have earned their right to represent the UAE."

Kazakhstan were convincingly beaten by Japan 87-0 in their opening match and, after a bye last weekend, will be looking at this match with the same vision as the hosts.