Doha Rugby Club is in an unfamiliar position this week preparing for the next friendly on the back of a narrow loss two weeks ago against Sri Lanka’s Colombo team.
The last match proved to be the first occasion on which Doha has been beaten in 2018 and they’ll be looking to turn things around this Friday night at the Doha Rugby Football Centre when they take on the Navy Rugby Team.
After dominating much of the play and scoreboard, Doha failed to hold onto their slight lead with newly appointed coach, Regan Sue, pinpointing lack of discipline and ball possession as factors behind the loss. Sue said they ‘dominated but actually didn’t’.
We had a lot of trouble with the line outs that put us under a lot of pressure. We spent most of the game in defence. There are no excuses for bad discipline and the ref called it as he saw it. We have addressed the issue and we will see this weekend how well the players adjust to the process.’
The New Zealand-born coach emphasised the need to focus on the process of catching, passing, carrying the ball and clearing the ‘rucks’ well. Acting Doha team captain Paddy Mills is more optimistic.
It was our first game and this week we are really keen to get back out there and avenge the defeat. We are a proud club, we don’t like losing on our home turf.’
On the huge Sri Lankan crowd in Doha for the visiting side, Mills said they are happy to have 700 people watching rugby as it helps them ‘raise the game’. Coach Sue also praised the Sri Lankan community for their support and attendance.
It’s good to see them here, and they brought a lot of energy to the game. They lifted us and the profile of the game and it was awesome. Whether they cheer for us or not, it’s not important. We are happy having them here enjoying our style of rugby and themselves.’
Sri Lanka Ambassador Welcomes Navy Rugby Team
Sri Lankan Ambassador to Qatar – HE ASP Liyanage together with family and friends, greeted and welcomed the Navy Rugby Team as they arrived at Hamad International Airport, ahead of the eagerly awaited Mercure Cup clash against the Doha Team at the Doha Rugby Football Centre. Navy players and officials posed for pictures with the diplomat before crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the athletes.
Doha Rugby Club is Qatar’s premier rugby team, winning more local finals than any other club. Prior to the blockade, they were ranked among the best in the GCC. Qatar has lost three players including Captain Elliot Johnston from the starting lineup. They will, however be boosted by a number of returning players. For more information, visit doharfc.com.
Related Link: https://www.marhaba.qa/colombo-rugby-club-clinch-ambassador-cup-after-epic-win-over-doha/
