Monday 8 December 2014 01:08, UK
Harlequins confirmed top spot in Pool Two of the European Rugby Champions Cup by defeating Leinster 24-18 in the first meeting between the two clubs since the notorious Bloodgate incident of 2009.
Tom Williams’ infamous substitution that marred that match was put aside as Harlequins registered their third win in as many games in this competition, a stark contrast to their shaky Premiership form where they have lost five in nine.
Leinster remain alive in the Champions Cup, despite a first defeat in three, by gaining a losing bonus point.
England flanker Chris Robshaw’s 200th appearance for Harlequins was ultimately a success after a rugged battle in which Leinster’s Ian Madigan continued kicking his side into contention.
Madigan and Nick Evans exchanged early penalties to put scores on the board – the latter of the two’s afternoon ended early with a hamstring injury. But Quins doubled their score shortly after, Tim Swiel kicking successfully after earlier missing one, before Madigan levelled in an opening tarnished by poor handling errors.
Both sides found themselves penalised in the scrum, Jimmy Gopperth couldn’t make it count for Leinster before Swiel made it 9-6 to Quins – again Madigan’s boot did the trick to ensure parity at half-time.
The Leinster kicker was in fine form and put his side 12-9 ahead moments after the break but Harlequins roared back with the first try of the match – Danny Care assisted Nick Easter who was made to wait before the video officials awarded the points. Swiel added the extras.
Aseli Tikoirotuma provided a moment of real quality by stealing the ball amid a promising Leinster attack before racing through to extend Quinns’ lead to 21-12.
Sensing victory, Joe Marler was penalised for slowing the ball down and Madigan closed the gap by three points. A line-out spun the ball wide for Leinster, leading to a further penalty which the accurate Madigan converted making it a three-point game.
Care responded as Harlequins impressively carried upfield, giving him the opportunity for a drop goal to which he duly accepted – they finished the game using their forwards to drive the ball into contact and ensure victory.
