UAE captain Niall Statham says there is a real sense of belief that the team can break into the coveted top eight nations in Asia at the second round of the Asia Rugby Sevens Series.
The UAE endured a nightmare start to the opening leg of the Series in China at the beginning of the month as they were whitewashed by both Hong Kong and the Philippines on day one in Qingdao.
However, they rallied on day two and beat Chinese Taipei and Singapore to claim victory in the Bowl final, which saw them claim an overall finish of ninth, one place outside their dream of the top eight.
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They want to end the series as one of the core eight teams in Asia going into 2016 and Scotsman Statham says the team heading to Thailand this weekend believe they can do it.
“We’re really excited. There’s a real sense of belief in the camp and a great work ethic,” said the 29-year-old Jebel Ali Dragons flanker.
“We know we can shock a few people and the goal is to break into that top eight. The build-up has been positive, with everyone staying late after practice to work on extra fitness, so we’re really positive.”
Eight of the 12-man squad played in Qingdao, Devante Steele, Charlie Sargent, Hareb Al Azri and Adel Al Hendi the four newcomers.