Abu Dhabi Harlequins head coach Mike McFarlane has paid tribute to his players’ “incredible attitude” after they were handed the Asia Rugby Western Clubs Champions League title.

The men from Zayed Sports City were crowned champions last night after Dubai Exiles failed to beat Sri Lankans Kandy by the required 40-point margin.

Exiles won 29-9 at The Sevens but were left empty-handed following Quins’ emphatic 56-17 triumph over Kandy in the capital on Tuesday night.

And McFarlane was full of praise for his side, who played four days after their 23-23 draw with Exiles, who enjoyed a week-long rest.

“To come away from the competition with a trophy and all the lads with minutes under the belt is fantastic,” said McFarlane.

“With a four-day turnaround, with the harsh weather conditions we played some fantastic rugby rotating players. The boys are working so hard in every session and have an incredible attitude which fuels the fantastic culture in the club.”

McFarlane, a former Quins player, had spoken previously of his feeling both Quins and Exiles would underestimate Kandy at their peril.

The Sri Lankan champions wilted badly in the sticky Abu Dhabi heat on Tuesday as the game wore on, having taken the lead in the match. Their stamina was much improved in Dubai in slightly cooler conditions, and McFarlane was happy they were able to do his side a massive favour by thwarting the West Asia Championship and UAE Premiership champions.

“I said all along Kandy are a good team and have threats all over the park,” he said. “They are a great bunch of lads as well which we know from touring there, and we are happy they did us a favour today.”