TIGERS CLAW DRAW
Harlequins 30 Leicester 30
TELUSA VEAINU crossed for a late try as Leicester Tigers came from the brink to snatch what could prove to be a crucial draw.
The full-back raced over seven minutes from time after Quins had appeared to have the game under lock and key.
Boss Geordan Murphy said: “We deserved something from the game, even a win. It was very tense near the end but the guys showed real character and desire.”
But Quins boss Paul Gustard added: “We should have won the game twice over. Some of the interpretation by the referee around the break down I could not understand.
“They were constantly offside and I feel frustrated at that.”
Marcus Smith and George Ford exchanged early kicking blows in a first-half littered with collisions and injuries.
USA Eagles star Paul Lasike put Quins ahead 13-6 at the break but Tigers struck back in the second half with Kyle Eastmond racing clear for a fine individual try.
Ford converted and the scores were level again.
But Tigers looked toothless in defence and Smith weaved his way over before Chris Robshaw bulldozed his way across from close range.
Tigers responded with flanker Jordan Taufua using his power to cross the Quins line.
Ford converted and then reduced the lead to seven points with a penalty.
Quins were reduced to 14 men for the final 10 minutes when Will Collier was shown a yellow card for consistent foul play.
It gave the visitors the chance to snatch a draw after Veainu powered over.
Ford converted to square things up and the two sides had no choice but to share the spoils.