Exiles make most of Quins’ surrender
THERE have been some anaemic displays from Harlequins this season, some partially excusable through injuries, but this ‘noshow’ against a seemingly doomed but incredibly spirited London Irish team plummeted unthinkable depths.
Quins had ‘only’ pride to play for but displayed none. Most of the team, including the big names who normally dig deep no matter what stage of the season, looked like they were already on the beach.
There was little passion and only sporadic appetite for the fray. It was a miserably poor performance, devoid of all merit and in truth Irish could easily have chalked up a half century. If ever there was an argument against ring fencing it was this game. It should be replayed on a loop the next time that nonsense comes up for debate.
Quins fans started leaving on the hour and those who remained either booed loudly on the final whistle or turned to their neighbours in the stand with bemused embarrassment.
This was a performance unworthy of those wearing one of the most famous shirts in world rugby and regardless of any other considerations Quins must play every one of their final three games this season as if they were the Premiership final itself or risk losing the loyal fan base they have built up over the last ten years.
Quins’ lethargy throughout was totally mystifying and was put into stark contrast by a tigerish Irish side who put in the kind of 80 minute effort they have found so elusive this season. It was in many ways bitter sweet as Irish have been a half decent Premiership side waiting to find their feet all along.
The Irish face a brutal end of season – Exeter, Sarries and Bath– but they are determined to leave the Premiership on a high and good on them. Mathemati- cally they are not yet relegated but they are ignoring all thoughts of a miracle escape and just intent on showing the club and themselves in a good light.
The Exiles roared out of the blocks yesterday and should have had a score within three minutes, but Alex Lewington’s ‘try’ was disallowed for a forward pass that looked anything but. No matter, they weren’t in the mood to be distracted and moments later a strong burst and clever inside ball from star man Tom Fowlie created a try for the impressive Piet van Zyl.
Irish poured on the pressure and Van Zyl crossed for a second after a nice crossfield kick by Marshall and a tidy collection and second kick from Lewington.
Next up Max NorthcoteGreen crashed over for a third and Irish were out of sight. All way too easy.
Irish have been known to a blow a lead but not this time. Tommy Bell added penalties either side of half-time before Jack Clifford claimed Quins’ solitary score after which Irish resumed control.
The excellent Fowlie secured their fourth try and bonus point and in no mood to ease up Bell concluded proceedings with another penalty.