Almaty: They may not have had the ideal start, but Arabian Gulf didn't return with their tails between their legs either as they went down fighting in their Asian 5 Nations opener against Kazakhstan in Almaty.
Both teams with their eye on the ultimate prize of qualifying for The Rugby World Cup 2011 in New Zealand were out in full force at the University Stadium.
But the home side, the second highest ranked side in the competition, took full advantage of their position as hosts, scripting a convincing 43-28.
The Arabian Gulf came out strong and secured an early lead against the Kazakhs 14-0. The opening try of the match was scored by centre Trent Eastgate through a superb interception of a wide pass. Kazakhstan gradually put several points on the board and took the lead in the dying minutes of the first half.
Late surge
The Arabian Gulf fought back with tries from flanker Edward LePine-Williams and full back James Love.
However, it was the home side that sealed the game 43-28 through a late surge scoring a penalty and converting a try under the posts.
The Arabian Gulf still have their sights set on second place in the competition and next face Hong Kong in Bahrain who defeated Korea 32-8.
The game kicks off at 7pm at the Bahrain Rugby Club.
