Mike Phillips has winning start with Jebel Ali Dragons against Dubai Exiles - in pictures

Victorious beginning to West Asia Premiership title defence for the Dragons on Friday

• 

  Mike Phillips, head coach of Jebel Ali Dragons, had a winning start with his team in their 20-14 win against Dubai Exiles. All photos by Satish Kumar for The National

• 

  Dubai Exiles look to make a break against Jebel Ali Dragons.

• 

  Jebel Ali Dragons, white, and Dubai Exiles, black, in action.

• 

  It was a tough tackling encounter as Jebel Ali Dragons triumphed.

• 

  Jebel Ali Dragons, white, and Dubai Exiles, black, in action.

• 

  Dubai Exiles look to make a break.

• 

  Jebel Ali Dragons, white, and Dubai Exiles, black, in action.

• 

  Players from Dubai Exiles and Jebel Ali Dragons compete for the ball.

• 

  Jebel Ali Dragons, white, and Dubai Exiles, black, in action.

Mike Phillips, the former Wales and British & Irish Lions scrum-half, registered a win in his first competitive match in charge of Jebel Ali Dragons on Friday.

The club  started their West Asia Premiership defence with a 20-14 win over Dubai Exiles at The Sevens in a close-fought contest.

___________

Read more

Abu Dhabi Harlequins and Bahrain cordiality a sign of the times in West Asia Rugby

UAE rugby enters new season amid a climate of transition and uncertainty

Tough act for Mike Phillips to follow as new Jebel Ali Dragons coach

UAE rugby clubs forced to get creative with sponsorship deals

____________