Dubai Hurricanes warmed up for the new season and paid a fine tribute to three former players at the club’s annual memorial game.

– RWC: Hansen blames ‘dumb’ McCaw for yellow card
– RWC: Where to watch matches in the UAE
– RWC: Japan’s upset proof expansionism is working

The match, which was held on Friday and played between two mixed sides led by first team captain Daniel Perry and second team captain Ian Greenhough, has become a traditional curtain-raiser to Canes’ campaign ever since the first match was played in 2007.

As well as the memorial game, the day has a community feel about it, with friends and families descending on 7he Sevens. Ladies and youth matches are also played and new kits are handed out as well.

Greenhough’s team ran out convincing 56-12 winners this year, after a minute’s silence was held before the match to remember the three former Canes players, which is what the day is really all about.

The inaugural game was established after the death of Jamie Black in 2007, with Mark Filby and Mothana Khafaji all passing away within the next two years.

“It was a good game, very competitive but in the end my side ran out winners by a considerable margin,” said Greenhough. “Man of the match after scoring a hat-trick was Ross O’Loughlin. Daryl Johnson scored two tries and looked dangerous every time he touched the ball.

“Kiwi Andy Powell ran our back line really well and new signing Andrew O’Driscoll was the stand out on Dan’s side. Most of all it was competitive and a great run out for the new season.”

Greenhough said the club were extremely moved, having received messages of support from all over the world, including former Canes’ players now living in Singapore, Australia and the UK.

“The whole club comes together to remember these three players and it’s always a great day,” he said. “It’s an event that stays with people. We had guys who’ve left the club write to us about the guys who passed on and what the day means to them. It was quite moving.”

After the game, players and supporters gathered at the JW Marriott in Dubai to watch the opening ceremony of the Rugby World Cup and the first game between England and Fiji.