Quins coast home to victory

HARLEQUINS are still second in the Tasmanian Rugby premiership table despite clocking off early in an inconsistent 38-10 win over AMC Vikings at Rugby Park on Saturday.

For Quins, Paulo Pua scored three tries but was shaded on the day by Pat Schramm and Matt Mitchell.

Quins coach Colin Fielea was happy with his side’s counter-attacking execution but his squad struggled at the scrum and failed to capitalise on crushing runs from Don Leota.

AMC’s Danny James said: ‘‘We thought beforehand we’d learn some things about ourselves against a larger pack, but we took too long to get into the game.’’

James Irwin scored a scrambling 50m try but was shaded by teammates Sunny Scott, Michael Johnson and James Hokin as the Vikings dominated territory but failed to convert pressure into points.

Taroona Penguins overcame visitors Launceston 28-5 despite an early Bees try and inside defence isolating Taroona’s edge and inside runners.

Penguins flanker Jay Armstrong scored three closerange tries as Taroona settled, generating more options after the break.

‘‘It was good to get a win and get back on track,’’ said Taroona coach David Whyte, nominating Armstrong, Rhys Watts and Mikie Whyte as stand-outs.

Bees coach Ray Burgess was pleased with upsetting Taroona’s game plan and said his side’s early try had created a real test.

Hobart Lions crashed University’s 80th anniversary, winning 34-19 in a spirited forward display.

Young No. 8 Ikwhan Sallih earned the points via spirited hit-ups and telling defence, supported by Mark Playle, Ned Schesne and Jon Cook.

For the Red Men, Brady Gower, Chris Hildrew and Jack Beattie tried to overcome the disruption of injuries but their pack was well eclipsed by the Lions, who built from an indifferent start to dominate possession.

At Warrane, Eastern Suburbs Roosters took the honours, beating Burnie Emus 45-9 with Marc Whitfield continuing his good form and Jake Hyland scoring three tries.

For the Emus, forwards Dayne Apiti, Michael Grace and Travis Hill tried hard but their inexperienced back three were isolated.

Devonport Bulls retained the competition lead, beating Glenorchy Stags 38-5 in Devonport.

The Stags were reduced to 14 men early following an injury to Wally Dare, but Brett Stevenson, Jamie Howard and Sean McCann epitomised their spirit.

Shaun Puke, Mark Meo, Ali Nesham and Luke Johnson headlined for the Bulls.