In a thrilling showdown in Dubai on Sunday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) rugby team achieved a remarkable comeback, securing their first-ever victory over Korea in the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship.
Despite trailing 27-13 at halftime, UAE rallied back with determination, clinching a sensational 36-32 win.
Fly-half Jamie Gavin emerged as the hero of the match, delivering an outstanding performance with a comprehensive display of skills. Gavin notched up a ‘full house‘ of achievements, including a try, two conversions, three penalties, and a crucial drop goal. His remarkable 21-point contribution proved instrumental in UAE’s triumphant turnaround.
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UAE’s spirited effort was further fueled by tries from scrum-half Andrew Semple, replacement front-row Moeneeb Gelant, and blindside flanker Epeli Davetawalu, showcasing the team’s collective resilience and determination.
Despite Korea outscoring UAE with five tries to four, UAE’s relentless pursuit for victory saw them leading for the final 12 minutes of the second half, securing a historic win that reverberated throughout the rugby world.
The victory marks a significant milestone for UAE rugby, propelling them to a new high in the rankings. Climbing three places to 57th, UAE’s ascent reflects their growing prowess and potential in the global rugby arena.
In contrast, Korea’s defeat sees them slipping three places to 33rd in the rankings, equalling their lowest-ever position alongside Zimbabwe, Germany, and Sweden.
Meanwhile, in another fixture of the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship, Hong Kong China asserted its dominance with a commanding 70-6 victory over Malaysia. Maintaining their unbeaten record against Malaysia, Hong Kong China’s emphatic win solidified their position at the top of the championship table, setting the stage for a potential title showdown with Korea in the coming weeks.
As the rugby action unfolds across the globe, Barbados made headlines with a resounding 91-7 triumph over St Lucia in the Rugby Americas North Men’s Championship. This victory, coupled with their recent dominant performances, propelled Barbados up the rankings by six places to 72nd, while St Lucia, making their return to the test arena, dropped to 100th place.
With each match showcasing the relentless spirit and competitive fervor of rugby teams worldwide, the stage is set for further captivating encounters and memorable moments in the sport’s rich tapestry.
