It was a double celebration for Dubai Affiliated School Sport Association (DASSA) who came out on top against their Abu Dhabi counterparts in football and netball.

In the first of its kind, DASSA and Abu Dhabi International Schools Sports Association (ADISSA) went head-to-head at Zayed Sports City in the capital with the emphasis on allowing the pupils to play against the emirate’s best.

With squads limited to 15 players from each side, each of the athletes had to attend trials after being nominated by their school. It was no surprise there was sheer talent on display.

Yacoub Basweidan and Shahin Ben Salah each scored a brace, before solo strikes from Walid Nsouli and Leon Pasquino saw DASSA seal a 6-0 win in football. After being inspired by the boys, the girls made it a day to remember, as they cruised to a 25-6 victory in netball.

Alistair Wells, of Repton School, was impressed by what he saw and insists there are plans to widen the scope.

“I was overwhelmed by the outstanding talent on the court and pitch,” he said. “There really are some exceptional players in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and I want to include schools from Sharjah in the future.

“I would like to thank Zayed Sports City, STS for providing transport and Sports Management Solutions for making the kits.”