News - 2008

Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens kicks off at impressive new venue

Successful start to sporting spectacle

Dubai, November 27, 2008 - Thousands of fans who flocked to the new home of the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, were treated to plenty of action on the first day of the 2008 tournament.

The tournament's new venue, The Sevens, opened its gates to the public for the first time on Thursday as a multitude of local, regional and invitational teams kicked off their competitions on the new pitches.

In the International Invitational section, the South Sea Drifters got their title defence off to a promising start with two convincing wins, beating Les Bleus 7s 36-0 and then Sri Lankan Development 43-0.

Battling it out in the International Overseas competition, Atlantic Invitational looked to be a team to look out for, with good wins over CSG Old Boys (61-5) and Racing Club (52-5) while Pyrenees 7s recorded one of the largest margins of victory of the day in beating HMS Lancaster 69-0.

Battling it out in the International Overseas competition, Atlantic Invitational looked to be a team to look out for, with good wins over CSG Old Boys (61-5) and Racing Club (52-5) while Pyrenees 7s recorded one of the largest margins of victory of the day in beating HMS Lancaster 69-0.

In the Local Social section, Multiplex Marauders also managed to prevent their opposition from scoring a single point as they defeated The Cavaliers 43 - 0, Al Ahli Rugby Team 58 - 0 and Barasti Bar 35-0.

Defending champions in the International Ladies section, Saudex Wooden Spoon also looked in good form as they notched up two comfortable wins, over USA Women and Aylesford Bulls 1.

Friday will mark the start of the IRB section of the tournament when 16 of the world's best international outfits will go head to head in search of the first title of the Sevens World Series.

Defending champions, New Zealand will come up against Wales in the first ever match to be played on Pitch 1 at The Sevens, at 9.30am.