Quins cut down Crusaders

Celtic Crusaders are still searching for their first Super League victory after slipping to a 40-18 defeat by Harlequins at the Brewery Field.

The newcomers have now lost eight on the spin and never looked likely to end that run against a well-organised Quins outfit.

The win takes the visitors into the top six after their surprise home loss to Catalan Dragons.

The Welsh club received a welcome boost with the return of skipper Jace Van Dijk from injury.

But Quins quickly got on top. Tony Clubb was put over in the corner after some good work by lively half-back Danny Orr before centre David Howell rounded off a terrific bit of work by loose forward Rob Purdham and full-back Chris Melling, who combined to drift past the home defence from 40 metres out.

Orr caught the Crusaders' defence napping to claim the third try and three conversions from Purdham in the windy conditions put the visitors firmly in command.

Intensity

As the intensity of the game went down a notch the Crusaders found a few gaps to exploit and managed to get themselves a forward platform.

Eventually it paid off when replacement Adam Peek just managed to stretch over the line for a try which centre Josh Hannay converted to cut the half-time deficit to 18-6.

However, just five minutes into the second half, Harlequins scored again when a quick move put Chris Melling over from a few metres out and Purdham converted.

Harlequins increased their lead to 24 points as Orr stole over for his second try after a quick play-the-ball from Luke Dorn, with Purdham landing his fifth kick of the match.

The Crusaders' gutsy efforts did create another try when Marshall Chalk crossed on the left.

But Quins hit back when a chip through saw Dorn dive on the ball for another touchdown.

Mark Dalle Cort intercepted for a third Crusaders touchdown but another interception gave Dorn his second try and left the Welsh side wondering just where that elusive first win is going to come from.