The game opened with a series of errors by Quins after receiving the kick off. Within minutes Hammersmith had stolen possession and broken through to score. Harlequins now began to focus on the game and worked their way into Hammersmith’s half. The breakdowns were fiercely contested and all too often Quins took the ball too high into contact allowing Hammersmith to steal possession.

When Hammersmith conceded a penalty inside their own 22, Quins took the ball forward and recycled well, with Captain Vicky Gallagher crashing through to equalise. Although Quins were able to keep play deep in the opposition half for the rest of the first half, the well organised Hammersmith defence kept them from crossing the line.

The second half opened with another strong attack by the visitors, and a disorganised Quins defence allowing them through for their second try. Harlequins retaliated with some strong runs into the opposition half, but too many needless errors kept them from scoring. Eventually, it was through a penalty then a driving maul, that 2^nd row Kyra Howell touched down for Quins.

When further errors in defence let Hammersmith through for their 3^rd try, followed up with a conversion, Quins once again needed to raise their game. Quins forced their way into Hammersmith’s 22, and the pace of outside centre Tanya Lee took Quins within 2 points of a draw. However, with the wind against them, the conversion was missed, leaving Quins with yet another defeat.

Quins may have used the game as a training opportunity for many new players, but as a whole squad they need to think hard about the errors that were made. They will need to step up their game and tighten up their ball retention before their next crucial league fixture at home to Ipswich on Sunday 6^th March.

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