OLI RESCUES RUSTY IRISH

Harlequins London Irish

ALEX SPINK

LONDON IRISH emerged from their Covid hell to dramatically force a draw at Harlequins.

The Exiles were playing their first game since before Christmas having had two matches called off because of coronavirus in their camp.

And when Quins led 27-15 with 13 minutes left it seemed their misery would continue.

But late tries by Albert Tuisue and Oli Hoskins forced the first draw in this season’s Premiership – with Paddy Jackson nailing the crucial touchline conversion.

“Tough is one word for the past fortnight,” said Irish coach Les Kiss, whose side picked up three points to pull clear of relegation trouble.

“Lads had to train at home and they deserve credit for making sure they stayed in great shape and ready for this challenge.”

Leicester have been awarded four points and Northampton two after Saturday’s derby fell victim to a Covid outbreak in the Saints camp.

Bristol lead the Premiership following a 20-7 win at Exeter on Saturday. They are four points clear of Newcastle, who beat Gloucester 22-10.