Dubai: A new-look Dubai Exiles rugby team celebrated the start of the Gulf rugby season with a six-try victory over an outclassed but 'never say die' Muscat.
In the season opener of the Arabian Gulf Cup match at The Sevens Stadium, the Dubai Exiles took some time to get into their stride.
An early yellow card to the hosts did not help matters, and with Gulf fullback Paul Beard struggling from the kicking tee, it looked like Muscat fancied their chances. However, with the ageless Mark Gathercole taking charge in the forward exchanges and allowing his backs a foundation to launch some slick attacking moves, the Exiles were soon on the scoreboard taking a lead they never relinquished.
Tries to strong running prop Chris Deacon, winger Jon Beeton and hard working captain Ed Nicholas sealed Muscat's fate with another popular try scorer being Exiles hooker Gaith Jalagel, who having fasted all day, scored a fine try after gathering a skilful chip kick from debutant prop Adam Savage.
Not to be outdone Muscat were rewarded with two late tries before Beard, finding some late form, chimed in with a score on the buzzer to finish his day with a 20 point haul from two tries and five successful kicks at goal. Final score: Dubai Exiles 42 Muscat 14.
In other Cup matches, reigning Premiership Champions Abu Dhabi Harlequins were too strong for Dubai Hurricanes, Bahrain were victorious over Doha and Dubai Dragons travelled to Kuwait for their victory.
