The first game against Old Abbotstonians was plagued with handling errors and missed chances. Quins never looked threatening losing 0 - 17. The team acknowledged it was a game they should have won but with typical rugby graciousness gave 'all credit to the opposition' for capitalising on their mistakes.

Quins started strong by wheeling the first scrum but a mistake from the back line allowed Abbotstonians to put a try over the line. A penalty to them made the score 0 - 8 before our team settled down and played defensively for the rest of the first half.

A controversial penalty decision in the second half gave the opposition another 3 points. Quins made a few forays into Abbotstonians quarter before going back on defence and were lucky to hold up a try before Abbotstonians made a desperate drop goal attempt which paid off.

With five minutes to go the only thing heated on the field were the late tackles and tempers which resulted in another penalty to the opposition. The final score being 0 - 17.

With Manager Chris Kelly and Coach Geoff Ashby both away for this game, thanks must go to Secretary Frank Cottrell who fulfilled all three roles on the day and got the beers in.

It was a much more spirited side which finally met London and Sudbury Springboks last week. The Springboks had previously cried off twice before, resulting in Quins being awarded the away points. Despite a late start - Springboks having gone to the wrong ground - both teams were up for a hard game with stoppages for blood bins, winded players and argy-bargy.

Quins dominated most of the lineouts and scrums with much of the praise going to Benn Richards who played out of his boots in spite of a chest infection, and subsequently became man of the match.

A special mention must also go to perennial prop Andrew Lawrence who restrained himself admirably after an unprovoked punch which split his eyebrow. Lawrence freely admits he would have been less upset had he received it in retaliation for something.

By half time the Boks were only leading 0 -3 from a drop goal thanks to staunch defence from the Quins . A converted try early in the second half to the Boks gave Quins the impetus for a re-doubled effort which paid off when Matt Jones side-stepped two players to score in the corner. Quins kept the pressure on for the final 15 minutes but were unable to penetrate the line. A penalty for the Boks gave them the match 5 - 13.

Coach Geoff Ashby was very positive about the game and praised the performance of the side. " The guys did well and all we have to do is consolidate on that effort and we're back on track to have an enjoyable second half of the season. "

Socially speaking...
Happy Birthday to Daniel Camacho last Monday and Mike Pudner who turns 21...again.
Harlequin Amateurs were amply represented at the recent Dubai Sevens with nice mix of the ladies, some of the seniors who played in the over-35 10's tournament, and a sprinkling of young wannabes who played 7's. Some of the more notable Harlequin 1st team players from successful yesteryears included Jack Russell, Andre Dent, Tim Bell, Steve Moriarty, and Malcolm Wall. The socialising was convivial, the photos libellous and the enjoyment factor was such they all plan to return next year...with victory on their minds. It was generally acknowledged that with a bit of effort, it was a tournament they could win. Roll on Dubai 2003 !

And finally....
We're very happy to welcome some new players to the club:
James Williams, Daniel Camacho, Ed Sterck, Stuart Houghton and Tim Hopwell.

With no game this Saturday, many of the Amateurs will be taking the opportunity to cheer on our professional colleagues at the Stoop. Come on you Quins !
Our next game is Saturday 04 January against London French.

Harlequin Amateur Squad:
Philippe Ah-Sun, Matthew Jones, Brandon van der Westhuizen, James Williams, Colin Crowther, Adam Westcott, Matthew Pead, Andrew Lawrence, David Camacho, Thomas Cooper, Benn Richards, Ed Sterck, Andrew Robinson, Tim Hopwell, Stuart Houghton, Ben Fretwell, Jon Fairweather. John Lawrence, David Wells, Phil Hunter, Russell Wigginton

Don't just sit there. Get involved !
Want to know what it feels like to pull on a Harlequin shirt and play your socks off ? New players are always welcome to join the Amateurs and be part of over 125 years of rugby tradition. To keep that tradition going we also need sponsors. If you're interested in playing, or can offer support or sponsorship we would love to hear from you. Call Chris Kelly on 07947 374 320 or 020 8545 1198.

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