Sunday’s friendly saw the Harlequin Ladies face Premiership 2 side, Alton, and come away with a well-earned win. Despite the heavy, boggy conditions, Quins put out an inspired performance, marked by excellent support play and a well-organised defence, writes Jo Everett.

After kicking-off to Alton, the quick chase by Quins soon secured them possession. Alton fought right back, regaining the ball and forcing play into Harlequins’ territory before winning a penalty. From here, they used quick hands to create the overlap they needed to stretch the Quins defence and score.

Just minutes later, Quins were dominating possession and fighting they way deep into Alton’s half. Harlequins’ strong running was finished off by Leah Carey, at number 8, using the hit-and-spin off the opposition fly-half, before crossing the line.

Alton tried to gain territory with their kicking game, but every time Quins used their powerful rucking to work their way back into Alton’s half. With half-time approaching, Quins were able to turn pressure into points with a driving maul taking the ball right up to the line. The points came thanks to the quick thinking of scrum-half, Saskia Brazier-Kobus, who took the ball from the back of the maul and powered through the fringe defence to touch the ball down.

Alton were shocked into action, and ran the ball straight back into Harlequins’ twenty-two. They read the drift defence well, cutting back inside to break through a scattered Quins defensive line to re-take the lead.

The second half opened with a more determined performance by Alton putting Harlequins under increased pressure. However, Quins kept their focus and maintained a well-organised defence until it was Alton who were forced onto the back-foot. Quins now played a patient game, keeping the ball secure as they forced their way deep into Alton’s half. It was fly-half, Dani Knight, whose evasive running duped several Alton players, as she took the ball over to secure victory for Quins.

With just a one-point lead, Harlequins’ work was far from over. Alton staged a strong attacking phase of play in the final minutes of the game, but they were denied the chance to score.

It was an impressive all-round performance for the Harlequin Ladies, against a side, which on paper, was due a win. There was a good balance between the forwards securing clean possession and good handling by the backs, with every member of the team giving one hundred per cent to the game. The result: A well-deserved win for Quins.




The Harlequin Ladies are always on the lookout for new players. Whether an old-hand or a complete novice, we look forward to hearing from you. Harlequin Ladies train on Wednesday and Friday nights from 7.30pm to 9pm on the training pitch behind the 1st XV pitch at The Stoop. The U16’s squad trains on Friday nights from 6pm till 7pm at the same venue.

For further press opportunities or more information about the Harlequin Ladies email us at quinsladies@hotmail.com

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