Penguins prevail as gritty Harlequins fall short

HARLEQUINS gave themselves a real chance against the Taroona Penguins in the Tasmanian Rugby Union competition at Rugby Park on Saturday.

In the first half a resurgent Quins, guided by a recently returned Lincoln Bowman, were holding their own.

His combination with Sidney Fielea was proving useful and that pairing should improve as they play more minutes together.

Unfortunately for Quins, their attack lacked the killer blow and they could not put Taroona away.

Over the past few years it has been common for Taroona’s opposition to look to go wide only to be easily picked off by the covering tacklers.

It was particularly evident for Harlequins in the second half as their larger backs were becoming isolated, resulting in turnover ball.

As the game wore on it became clear that Taroona’s structures and discipline were superior. They were led by Rickardt Daniel in attack and defence from the back of the scrum.

Ish Duindam crossed for his maiden try and the Penguins ran out winners 32-12.

“Great all-round effort today,” a pleased Penguins coach Chris Noble said after the game.

The Harlequins pack will need to become a little more mobile should they wish to combat the Taroona game plan next time the two sides meet.

In other results the Hobart Hutchins Lions comfortably accounted for University 42-18 as did the Devonport Bulls over the visiting Glenorchy Stags 47-7.

In the final game, the AMC Vikings smashed the Burnie Emus 80-0.