The game began with a minute's silence in memory of fellow Harlequin, Nick Duncombe, following his tragic death the previous week.

Harlequins put in a strong chase to their kick-off and soon regained possession, but Reading challenged well in the rucks, making it difficult for Quins to get quick ball. Having stolen back the ball, Reading attempted to kick for territory. Quins full-back, Alex Burbidge, caught the ball on the bounce and powered through to score her breakaway try.

As the first half progressed, the Quins Ladies repeatedly conceded penalties and soon found themselves defending right on their own try line. Harlequins defended well and finally managed to kick their way out of trouble.

Quins began to put together more organised phases of play and to make better use of support runners. From this platform, scrum-half, Saskia Brazier-Kobus, carried the ball over to score a second try for Harlequins.

The second half opened with Quins dominating possession, but the game was put on-hold when one of the Reading players went down with a suspected neck injury. Both teams found it difficult to maintain their concentration as the game had to move to an alternative pitch.

The rest of the game was littered with penalties and handling errors, and once again Harlequins found themselves defending deep in their own territory. Reading were unable to break through the Quins defence and Harlequins now made effective use of their kicking game to ease the pressure. The final few minutes saw a strong attack by Quins in Reading's twenty-two, but the points were not forthcoming.

Whilst pleased to come away with the win, the Quins Ladies need to tighten up their game ready for their next league fixture, at home against Newbury on Sunday.



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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