The stoop was bouncing for the first “Friday Night Lights” of the season as Harlequins returned to the stoop after a disappointing loss away to Northampton, while Sale sharks came here on the back of thrashing Gloucester. Quins hoping to continue their impressive home form.
The game didn’t start as planned as captain James Horwill was withdrawn just before the start after failing concussion protocols however Quins were boosted by the returns of Marler and Robshaw from Injury.
Marcus Smith had another impressive game in the quarters as Harlequins scored 3 tries before the break, Visser, Marler and Marchant going over the whitewash. Vissers try was one of beauty after a cross field kick to the corner by Danny Care; If you haven’t seen it then catch the highlights below. Visser was then involved in the 2nd when he went clear to get close to the line, Marler then powering over from close range. The 3rd try was a bit fortunate but a reward for good pressure, Marchant charged down a clearance kick by Sam James with the ball bouncing favourably for the number 13 to get the tap down; Quins with 3 unanswered tries within 25 minutes all of which were converted by fly half Smith. The Number 10 also added two penalties while Mike Haley scored a great individual try for Sale in what was a scintillating half of rugby.
Soon after the restart, the impressive Visser went over for his second try, a result of another impressive kick to the corner by Care. The Bonus point wrapped up and Quins well on their way to another home win. Sale however were not down and out, they responded in great fashion to get their own try bonus point. Aulika went over as a result of a rolling maul, Sam James intercepted a Danny Care pass and went clear before Ross Harrison went over from close range but Harlequins worked hard and held on with Yarde getting a 5th try late on
In summary a quite remarkable game for the neutral! it had everything, tries, more tries and a nice little scuffle at the end resulting in two yellow cards! A special mention for Danny Care and Tim Visser; Care who was at his best, showing us all why he is England’s best scrum half, Tim Visser looking very impressive in his first appearance at the stoop this season. I would like to wish Jack Clifford a speedy recovery from what looked like a nasty injury, He will be a big miss for not only Quins but England during the autumn internationals.
Harlequins 42 Sale Sharks 26
Unfortunately I was not able to make the La Rochelle game as I was out with the family celebrating my parent’s anniversary so there will be no blog on that game, However I must say its great to see Quins back in the Champions cup after a 3 year absence. Look forward to returning to the stoop for the visit of Worcester.
Keep an eye out for my next few blog posts to drop. The next one is titled: “Is International Football Dead?”
