Jebel Ali Dragons head west to take on Doha looking to build on the momentum gleaned from successive victories.
Dragons were thrashed on opening day by Bahrain but got back to winning ways two weeks ago with a resounding 51-20 victory over Dubai Hurricanes before backing that up last week with a gritty 10-7 win at Abu Dhabi Saracens.
The away side have encountered a few difficulties with visa applications seeing five players unable to travel, including Jon Hamilton and Marco Pelizzari.
However, fly-half James Semple returns after missing last week’s victory, while Andy Buist comes into the forward, while UAE international Ben Blamire features for the first time this season.
“It’s a big week for us, going away to Doha is never easy, and getting players over there with visas is tough, but the strength in depth we have this year means we can field a quality 22,” said former Arabian Gulf international and Dragons’ assistant coach Jonny MacDonald.
“It’s important for us to go there and build on the momentum we have. While Sarries wasn’t the prettiest of games it is one we had to win and we ground that out.”
Head coach Henry Paul added: “As a squad, we also lose Jon and Marco due to travelling issues which would normally be a hammer blow due their work rate and game management, but luckily we get back Andy Buist and Ben Blamire.
“They have returned reinvigorated and every player in the squad has been pushing each other to be at their best in training. We want to keep the momentum going after two wins but we know Doha are a quality squad with attacking threats all over the park.”
After looking ragged in an opening day loss to Dubai Exiles, Doha recovered to beat Abu Dhabi Saracens last time out and coach Aaron Palmer knows winning at home is key to any success his side may have this season.
“It’s a must win game for us at home as going on the road is always that bit harder,” said the New Zealander.
“The boys are looking forward to game time after two weekends off with no games so we need to eliminate any rust at training.
“We should be at full strength at home. The inclusion of prop Sam Spencer who is back after long term injury is needed up front.”