Match Reports
By
Phillip Dacey
e-mail :- Phillip Dacey
Reports : 2002
/ 2003 / 2003
/ 2004 / 2004
/2005 / 2007-2008 / 2008-2009
Season 2005 / 2006
Aberavon Harlequins 87 Alltwen 0
The Quins held too much power and pace for relegated Alltwen and ran in thirteen tries.
The home side took the plucky visitors apart with some excellent team play interspersed with some great individual efforts
The Quins pack with Paul Miller back in harness paved the way for the eager backs to display their skills. Props Richard Diaz and Andrew Price dominated the set pieces and Flankers mark Davies and Richard Wanklyn instigated many attacking moves.
Full back Mark Sheppard created a club league record by scoring two tries and landing eleven conversions. Fly half Gareth Pugh also grabbed two touchdowns with spectacular running. Marcus David at scrum half, winger Jamie Lean and flanker Richard Wanklyn also scored two each. Skipper Darren Gibbs, No.8 Craig Cox and centre Neil Pugsley scored one each
Aberavon Harlequins 5 Tondu 22
Aberavon Quins slumped to defeat after failing to capitalise on almost complete dominance in the first half hour.
Breaks by flankers Richard Wanklyn and Mark Davies should have brought scores and also No. 6 Craig Cox set up a great chance. Emergency winger Ash Davies ran strongly on several occasions and was unlucky not to score. Penned in their own 22 for much of the first 30 minutes, Tondu showed remarkable tenacity in defending their line. A Dean Thomas penalty relieved the situation and took play into Quins territory; another penalty followed and eased the home team in front with a well taken shot.
Quins hit back immediately with props, Richard Diaz and Neil Crockett powering their way towards the Tondu goal line. Darren Gibbs and Karl Davies won good line out ball to hold the position and when Crocket was held near the left hand corner the ball was smartly moved across the back line for Jamie Lean to touch down.
Facing the wind in the second half it was soon to become clear that the lead was not enough.
The Quins forward effort waned and the backs became disjointed.
A good rolling maul resulted in a James Goss touchdown, Thomas converted. Quins stuck to the task but the educated boot of Dean Thomas kept the home side on the front foot and he improved one of two further tries by Aran Warner and Mask Griffiths.
The Quins have just one game remaining at home to Alltwen on Saturday and the development squad play the Royal Naval Club in the district cup final at the Athletic Ground on Sunday.
Aberavon Harlequins 8 Resolven 17
Resolven ran out winners through the dominance of their forwards. On top in the scrums and with superior mauling the home team kept the visitors on the back foot. Lock Richard Davies gave a good display of line out skills and the Quins were grateful that the home backs resorted to over use of the kick.
Paul Thomas and Rob Jones secured a fair share of the line out but the normally slick Quins backs appeared disjointed and frittered away many first half scoring opportunities.
Early pressure from the long kicking fly half Darren Bowen kept the Quins on the defensive. Flanker Craig Pritchard grabbed a try when a powerful rolling maul crashed over the Quins line. James Challenger converted.
The Quins hit back immediately when half Marcus David scrum sped away from the scrum creating space for fly half Ash Davies to side step over. No.8 Craig Cox was the Quins star forward and put in some powerful runs. Great running from the Quins three-quarters with help from full back Marc Sheppard gave winger Jamie Lean a great chance but never say die defending thwarted him. More pressure from the visitors gained a penalty and Sheppard eased the Quins in front.
Poor decision making by the Quins backs was a disappointing feature and over use of the boot with not too much direction contributed to their own downfall.
Starting the second half in the lead the Quins settled a little and smart work from Marcus David split the Resolven defence but his pass was dropped with the line beckoning.
Craig Cox galloped out of a maul and fed the backs with a long pass but again a chance was missed. The Resolven pack stepped up their effort and gained complete ascendancy. Nick Reed led his eight well and Jarrett and Loynes gave good support. Quins held out for a while but maul after maul brought the inevitable score as Richard Morgan sped over beneath the bar. Challenger converted and soon added a penalty and despite sporadic efforts by the Quins Resolven comfortably held on to their lead and run out worthy winners
Aberavon Harlequins 30 Alltwen 3
Aberavon Quins ran out clear winners against lowly Alltwen although the home side fought every inch of the way. Playing down the slope Alltwen attacked strongly and a break by fly-half, Dean Morgan should have brought an early score. Scrum half Gavin Lewis also featured prominently behind a scrum that was working well. Andrew Morrow deservedly eased Alltwen in front with a penalty. The Quins appeared disjointed and lack lustre in the opening quarter. The return of skipper Darren Gibbs after a long lay-off gave the visitors a huge advantage in the line-out and he, along with fellow lock Karl Davies, often stole the Alltwen throws.
The Quins then settled and No.8 Dan Owen made a great break and despite support from centres, Neil Pugsley and Dai Anthony the Alltwen defence stood firm.
The home side continued to hold the advantage in the first quarter and Lewis and Morgan kicked astutely and lock Murphy contributed much.
Gibbs won an Alltwen throw in and flanker Richard Wanklyn sped away with support from Dai Anthony but the chance was frittered away with careless handling. Back-row man Nicky Stubbs featured in the centre for Alltwen but found the pace of Pugsley and Anthony too hot to handle. Richard Wanklyn featured in several moves and had willing help from Dan Owen and Craig Cox. Quins appeared a smarter outfit behind and when Karl Davies won an Alltwen throw it was strong running centre Dai Anthony drove into the home defenders and quickly fed the ball. Scrum Half Larkman sped the ball across the threequarters and full back Marc Sheppard made the extra man and handed on from Pugsley to Jamie Lean and the ace finisher needed no second bidding in riding the last tackle to score. Sheppard narrowly missed the conversion. Gibbs was in unstoppable form in the line out and also contributed some good loose work. Scrum half Larkman had a strong dart along the blind side touch-line and the Alltwen defenders were stretched to the limit. An injury to Dean Morgan forced the fly-half to move to scrum half and left him limping for the remainder of the game. Good pressure from the Quins pack with hooker Mark Davies well to the fore brought a two penalty shots for Sheppard who made the score 11-3 to the Quins at half time.
Playing with the considerable advantage of the slope the Quins stepped on the gas. Fly half Gareth Pugh varied his play well and when
Alltwen were slow in clearing his kick ahead pressure from Richard Wanklyn and Dai Anthony created a chance for Pugsley to feed winger Billy Lavis who trotted over unopposed. Marcus David replaced Jason Larkman at scrum half and immediately got in on the action Craig Cox put in another sterling performance which he crowned with a try after a strong run from winger Lavis set up a good maul and Marcus David slipped Cox a scoring pass. Sheppard converted
Replacement loose head Jon Agar slotted in well and put in a very strong run. Good support from Diaz and Wanklyn set up a chance for Karl Davies to touch down, Sheppard again converted to make the Quins convincing winners against a side who are obviously struggling but played with a great spirit.
Aberavon Harlequins 05 Vardre 15
In a fiercely fought encounter Vardre deserved their victory even though they were forced to work hard by the home side.
Playing into a stiff wind the Quins pressed hard from the start and were unlucky not to gain an early lead through driving forward play and some strong running from centres Neil Pugsley and Richard Thomas. It was good tactical kicking however by Vardre that gave them a chance to open the scoring after 10 minutes and although his first effort went astray Mike Ketley eased the visitors in front with a penalty. The Quins pack swarmed to the attack and pressurised the Vardre backs into hurried mistakes. Livewire hooker, Mark Davies was well up to charge down and re-gather a relieving kick and lock Rob Jones was on hand to link with the three quarters and left winger Billy Lavis popped up on the right flank to score a try that went unconverted. Vardre re-doubled their efforts but the Quins defence stood firm. Two strong runs along the touchline from Lavis threatened the visitors and another on the right flank by Ash Davies almost brought scores. Quins reached half time well satisfied with the two point lead against the wind but rued missing a few half chances...
Early in the second half however it soon became evident that the first half effort had taken its toll on the home eight and despite heroic performances from Mark Davies, lock, Karl Davies and No.8 Craig Cox the Vardre pack gained dominance. A dubious decision on a clearance kick from the Quins which was ruled out on the full gave the Vardre eight a chance to show their mauling technique and scrum half Rick Rosser touched down to ease his team in front.
The visitors then displayed some great attacking play instigated by their back row and a following three-quarter move saw winger Mathew Joseph score in the corner. Ketley converted.
With time running out the Quins showed great character and returned to the attack with a vengeance. Skipper Richard Wanklyn figured in several attacks and solid support from replacement lock Darren Gibbs set up a great platform but poor decision making led to the Vardre defence holding out as on four occasions individuals drove for the line when a simple pass to overlapping three quarters could have brought a score.
The Quin’s last chance went when the referee adjudged that Karl Davies failed to ground the ball over the line.
Aberavon Harlequins 24 Bryncoch 24
In an entertaining game at Bryncoch honours ended even with both teams feeling they deserved victory.
Playing with a strong wind at their backs the Quins needed to build up a clear first half lead. Bryncoch however opened the scoring when sloppy work at the base of the scrum put full back Marc Sheppard under pressure and his attempted clearance was charged down and Centre Craig Thomas put the home side ahead with an unconverted try.
The hefty Quins eight held the whip hand in the set pieces and eager foraging by flankers Craig Cox and skipper Richard Wanklyn put the visitors in strong positions. Good work by fly half Jonathan Davies and centre Andrew Payne spelled danger for the Quins but their defence stood firm. A great relieving kick from Sheppard took play deep into home territory enabling the Quins eight to spoil a Bryncoch line out. Prop Neil Crocket did well in the set up and Larkman quickly released the backs for Neil Pugsley to knife through in the centre and give full back Marc Sheppard a run in behind the posts. Sheppard converted and added a penalty before Bryncoch swept back and did well to set up an attack after securing kick off ball. A great drive from the home eight had the Quins back pedalling.
More sloppy play at the base of the scrum saw Larkman having a kick charged down and Chris Dawson touched down to level the scores.
As the wind strengthened it was clear the Quins had not taken full advantage of the elements. Karl and Mark Davies shone in the Quins pack and young Lloyd Collins also featured in several close quarter exchanges.
The Quins eight held a period of domination and another strong drive with Darren Nicholas well to the fore allowed an orthodox three-quarter move with an incursion into the line from Sheppard saw winger Billy Lavis dive over in the corner, to make the half time score 15-10 to the visitors.
Playing into the strengthening wind the Quins stormed to the attack but resolute home defence kept them out but still Sheppard stretched the lead with a penalty goal. Clever strategic kicking by home halves, the two Jonathans, Davies and Richards gain footholds deep into Quins territory and great defence particularly from flankers Craig Cox and Wanklyn looked as if the home side would be thwarted but strong approach work from the forwards set up a chance and Chris Dawson dived over to score Jon Davies converted.
With a one point lead the Quins strove hard to increase their lead. Tremendous running from Ash Davies and some sniping blind side breaks by Larkman and Cox seemed to be steering the Quins to victory.
A Sheppard penalty made the lead four points.
Bryncoch weathered the storm and threw everything into attack and flanker Jon Grimes deserved his try Jon Davies converted to ease his side into the lead with minutes to go.
Quins dredged up a last effort in attack and were rewarded with a penalty which Sheppard slotted to level the score.
Bryn had one last chance to snatch victory but Jon Davies saw his dropped goal attempt hook wide.
Aberavon Harlequins 26 Tondu 05
The Quins miserable run of defeats came to an end with a comprehensive win over Tondu. In the worst conditions imaginable both teams and significantly, referee Mr Lyn Davies combined to provide an entertaining game for the hardy souls who braved the elements.
The Quins pack, bolstered by the return of tight head prop Neil Crockett gained the upper hand early on and the backs combined well displaying handling skills that made a mockery of the conditions.
The half back combination of Jason Larkman and Ashley Davies worked smoothly and Larkman’s passing was particularly flat and accurate. Fly half Davies was his usual mercurial self and never shirked a tackle.
Skipper and flanker, Richard Wanklyn, led by example and received eager support from fellow back row men Dan Owen and Craig Cox.
It was skilled full back, Marc Sheppard that instigated the first Quins score when he fielded a kick deep in his own half and weaved his way through would-be tacklers. Centre, Neil Pugsley was on hand to support and gave a scoring pass to lock Karl Davies. Sheppard converted.
The next score came when outstanding hooker, Mark Davies burst away from a line out to feed Wanklyn who cleaved his way through the visitors defence and Pugsley again handed a scoring pass to winger Gareth Pugh. Sheppard converted from a wide angle.
With a change of jerseys in the second half the Quins swung back to the attack but a spilled ball in the Tondu 22 gave full back Thomas the chance to hack on and beat the Quins cover in a long chase to score.
Tondu won their fair share of the ball especially through locks Wools and Davies but the tough tackling of the Quins centres Stu Phillips and Neil Pugsley continually broke up any threatening attacks.
The Quins pack showed better mauling technique of late and No.8 Daniel Owen grafted well and also put in some storming runs, one of which set up the opportunity for Scrum half Jason Larkman to work the blind side and winger Billy Lavis slid over. The Quins pack increased the pressure and after good work by Richard Diaz, Cox and Owen, big lock Paul Thomas crashed over and Sheppard again converted. As the conditions worsened credit had to be paid to both teams and the referee for providing such an entertaining game in atrocious conditions
Aberavon Harlequins 12 Tonna 20
Aberavon Quins with several regular forwards missing and flanker Mark Davies at scrum-half were not expected to trouble the league leaders but the result was in doubt right up to the closing minutes.
With the home pack dominating the set pieces, an abundance of quality ball was provided for the Tonna backs. Fiercely competing for every inch of ground, the Quins eight were a match for Tonna in the loose. Deadly tackling from centres, Richard Thomas and Neil Pugsley time and time again stopped the home backs from reaching the gain line. Two early penalties from fly-half Mike Powell eased the home side in front. Aggressive defence from skipper Richard Wanklyn caused havoc among the home threes who were often forced to spill the ball. Feisty fly-half Ashley Davies scooped up a loose ball on half-way and a delicate chip turned the Tonna defence and Davies easily outstripped the defenders to ground his own hack-on beneath the posts. Marc Sheppard converted to put the Quins 7-6 up half time.
Early in the second half Mark Davies was felled by a cynical stiff arm whilst following his quick drop out. Ash Davies appealed to the ref but was yellow carded for his pains. Whilst reduced to 14 men Tonna regained the lead when Gavin Langford grounded at the bottom of a maul. Powell converted. As more pressure came on from the home side young flanker Craig Cox showed great aggression and application and Darren Nicholas & Karl Davies in the second row also rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in. As another would be Tonna attack foundered in the face of stern Quins defence Davies scooped up a loose ball and quickly sped along the three quarters for Mike Parfitt to scorch over from 40 metres.
Sheppard narrowly failed to regain the lead with the conversion attempt. Storming play from Wanklyn, Dan Owen and Mark Davies took play to the brink of the Tonna line and this time it was the home eight that mauled their way out of trouble.
With injury time approaching the home side gained a line-out 10 metres out from the Quins line and Langford scored a carbon copy of his first try.
Powell converted.
Aberavon Harlequins 12 Brynaman 15
Though not at their best the Quins could be deemed as desperately unlucky not to secure the victory they deserved
The home side started brightly and a dart along the touchline by Jamie Lean followed by a chip ahead almost brought an early score for the winger. Fly-half, Gareth Pugh then knifed through but a scoring pass was not held. Full-back Mark Sheppard led an attacking foray on the left flank and winger Billy Lavis ran strongly.
It was all Quins in the first twenty minutes until a speculative kick through by Ossian Jones was not cleared by Quins defenders and Jones hacked on and scored. Quins hit back strongly through hooker Mark Davies and support from lock, Paul Thomas. Brynaman then gained more control of the game and full back Sheppard was called upon to put in some relieving kicks. From a line-out close to the Quins line, prop Spurling strolled over unopposed. Full- back Williams converted.
Brynaman attacked strongly and centres Stu Phillips & Neil Pugsley tackled well to keep the visitors at bay. Mark Davies again set up an attack and Craig Cox was adjudged to have lost the ball in scoring. Scrum half Larkman made a blind side dash and again Jamie Lean was held on the line. Stu Phillips then broke the line first line of defence with great support from Mark Davies and Cox just failed to score.
12-0 down in the second half, Quins attacked strongly and punishing runs by Lavis had the Bryn defence fully stretched. Mark Davies again involved with Lavis to create a chance and smart pass from Phillips saw Sheppard touchdown for a good try which he converted. Quins were spurred on by this and only resolute defending and some mysterious decisions by the referee held their line, 22 minutes into the second half Quins notched their second try when god forward play put the three quarters away and Lean rounded off with a corner try. Sheppard’s conversion attempt rebounded from the cross bar, the Quins threw everything into the attack and on-lookers watched in disbelief as prop Richard Diaz was denied a try by the referee.
The Ref was again on hand as great work by No.8 Dan Owen set up a try which was cancelled for a forward pass. With 10 minutes to go a rare venture into Quins territory saw Brynaman awarded a penalty and Williams stroked over the games solitary penalty goal attempt to secure victory for the visitors.
Aberavon Harlequins 13 Cwmgors 18
The Quins tale of woe continued when losing their fourth game on the trot at Cwmgors.
Quins started brightly and early forward dominance particularly in the set scrums gave the backs chances to show their paces.Conditions underfoot however hampered the Quins efforts as the gluepot surface slowed down attacks.Billy Lavis made the transition from back–row to right wing smoothly and put in some telling runs early on.Astute kicking from Jason Larkman gained position for the visitors and driving play from the pack allowed centre Neil Pugsley to dive over. The conversion attempt failed but Quins were full value for their lead.
Very much against the run of play Cwmgors hit back with a Richard Gregg penalty goal. This proved the spur for the home side to bring more aggression into their forward effort and charging runs by hooker Karl Nottingham caused major problems in the Quins defence. Good defending from locks Karl Davies & Rob Jones held the line intact but it was inevitable that the Quins mauling technique was exploited and tight head Rees appeared to be awarded the touchdown.
More rousing play from the home eight had the Quins reeling and Nottingham crashed over. Just on half time the Quins were awarded a penalty which Mark Sheppard pushed wide, an almighty mix up in the home defence saw Lavis grab an opportunist try.
The Quins forward effort waned in the second half and the visiting eight were given a severe examination in scrums and line-out inevitably another try was conceded from a maul and despite strong runs from left winger Mike Parfitt and two slashing breaks from Centre Neil Pugsley lack of support meant that only a Sheppard penalty was the reward.
Aberavon Harlequins 16 Nantyffyllon 25
The Quins battled hard against the league leaders but could not gain the mastery up front to gain a victory.
With a tricky cross wind slightly favouring the Quins in the first half, the visitors slammed into the attack with their sledgehammer pack driving the home eight backwards and although stout defending by the Quins kept the line safe they could do little to stop Nathan Healy easing his side in front with a long drop goal.
From the restart the quicker Quins eight seized the opportunity to rip into the visitors. Flankers Rhys Andrews & Craig Cox were well to the fore and strong runs from No 8 Ricky Parfitt set up chances. Centres, Dai Anthony and Richard Thomas battered at the defence with scrum half Flynn firing out long passes and the Nanty defence was breached when No 8 Rick Parfitt gave a scoring pass to brother Mike and the winger dashed over. The Quins maintained the attack and fly half Jason Larkman stretched the lead with a dropped goal.
The Nantyffyllon pack then ground out yard after yard and although defending well the Quins were forced to concede a penalty and have a forward yellow carded. The seven man home pack had no chance as they were driven back for No.8 Budge to touch down.
Larkman restored the home lead with another dropped goal just on half time.
Early in the second half with the Quins appearing to gain command an attempted clearance kick was charged down and a fortunate bounce saw Richard Morris gallop under the posts. Healy converted to give his team the lead. Quins were not to be denied and sweeping loose marauding from the forwards with hooker Mark Davies and new boy Karl Davies well to the fore. Replacement winger, Richard Wanklin put in some strong runs and a slashing break by Larkman created the chance for Jamie Lean to cross.
Nanty powered back however as the Quins forward effort wilted and a controversial try was grabbed by Ryan Turner. Healy converted and sealed the Quins fate with a late penalty. Sponsors Dylan’s of Cwmavon nominated Craig Cox as home player of the match
Aberavon Harlequins 12 Kenfig Hill 17
Another below par away performance from the Quins led to their second defeat running.
All early pressure came from the eager Kenfig Hill side and a sharp turn of speed from winger Owen Attwood carved out the opening try for Rhodri Clark which went unconverted. Astute kicking from Quins centre Richard Thomas sent the Quins bowling down the Athletic Ground’s slope and good pressure from Paul Miller and Mark Davies caused anxious moments in the home defence. Centre Neil Pugsley and winger, Jamie Lean also created half chances. Two missed penalty kicks at this point were eventually to prove crucial as the Mules lead 5-0 at the break.
Quins eight were dictating the scrums and it took a star performance from scrum half Ryan Giles constantly picking up from the retreating scrum to keep his team on the front foot. Although off target with his place kicking fly half Mark Jones put in a masterful performance kicking out of hand. He notched a try and a conversion to add to replacement Darryl Harvey’s touchdown.
With veteran scrum half replacement Darren Flynn at their heels Quins pack drove well in the loose and Hooker Paul Miller scored a try wide out. Flynn then made a slashing break to set another attack. Several Quins forwards strove to cross but finally Flynn burrowed his way over. Sheppard converted but was left to rue the early missed kicks that might have snatched a victory.
Aberavon Harlequins 08 Cwmafan 27
Totally outplayed in the tight and out mauled by a distance Quins did well to keep down the losing margin
Only try for the Quins came late in the game when a huge pass from replacement scrum half Darren Flynn enabled Fly half Gareth Pugh to create half a gap for centre Neil Pugsley to split wide the home defence and support from flanker Mark Davies took play to the Cwmafan line were good recycling gave No.8 Daniel Owen the chance to burrow over. Only other score was a Mark Sheppard. Heroic defending could not change the inevitable result. Quins must improve for the visit to Kenfig Hill next Saturday as the result of the home encounter was 35-32 to Quins
Thursday 5th January 2006
Aberavon Harlequins Under 21……..32 pts
British Army Under 21……………….15 Pts
For the first time in their history Aberavon Quins fielded an under 21 side. The bulk of which was last season’s successful youth XV boosted by guest appearances by players from other clubs in the locality.
The game started at a furious pace which was maintained throughout.
Spearheaded by skipper and No.8, David Bates the army swept to the attack and the Quins defence underwent a serious examination. Full Back, Marc Sheppard twice brought off try saving tackles within the first quarter. The Quins eight then managed to turn the tide with some good ball, enabling fly half Gareth Pugh to combine with centres Stu & Dan Phillips to put pressure on the Army defenders. Fly half Chris Ramwell was yellow carded at a ruck and Sheppard stroked the resulting penalty over to ease the Quins in front. Spurred by this reverse the Army produced some exhilarating play belying the fact they were reduced to fourteen men. Quins took up the challenge and countered well but losing possession during a promising attack allowed the visitors to strike. Smart handling by backs & forwards saw Scrum half Richard Griffiths hare over in the corner. As both sides hammered away at each other it was the defences that held sway for the remainder of the half.
With the introduction of scrum half Marcus David & flanker Marc Breeze the Quins appeared more organised. Breeze took command of the forward effort and they gelled together well. Almost with his first touch of the ball David split the defence with a blistering run and chipped the last defender to score a classy try that was improved by Ash David. This remarkable effort ensured that the Army back row had to keep closer to the scrums so enabling replacement fly-half Ashley Davies the chance to show off his three quarters in fine style. With the Quins slowly getting to grips with the situation up front the Army hit back in classy style. Turn over ball was quickly worked to Rhiddian Slade-Jones and the full back showed a clean pair of heels to the despairing Quins defenders. Ramwell converted to ease the visitors in front. A great display from flanker Adam Dawe set up several attacks for the Quins and from a line out close to the Army line Breeze forced his way over, Ash Davies converted.
The Army hit back well and reduced the arrears through a Ramwell penalty. Ash Davies hit back in kind to stretch the home lead.
Strong play by the home pack with Rhys Andrews, Lee Crocket always to the fore saw the visitors wilt. A line out win by James Edmunds allowed the Quins to sweep to the attack and smart play saw Gareth Moore cross in injury time allowing Davies to make it a convincing score line with a conversion.
Aberavon Harlequins 36 Ystalafera 5
In a blistering first half display of quality rugby played at breakneck speed the Quins quickly banished any thought of victory from the visitors’ minds.
Early forays however foundered and Full back Evans and busy hooker Williams put in some sharp runs.
The Quins took an early lead when full back Marc Sheppard combined well with fly-half Gareth Pugh, swift inter-passing between Jamie Lean and Neil Pugsley saw the latter cross close to the corner flag. Sheppard added the conversion.
Quick thinking flanker Richard Wanklin threw in from a line out to un- marked Pugh who fed Jamie Lean who sped over, again Sheppard landed the conversion from a wide angle to become the first Quins player to pass a hundred points in a season since Jamie Davies, the current Aberavon record holder.
The Quins eight were in dominant form and scrum half Darren Flynn was able to ply fly-half Pugh with a stream of accurate passes. Eager running from winger Mike Parfitt was always a threat to the visitors.
Ystalafera hit back and a high garryowen was well fielded by lock Rob Jones who drove up field to set up another attack. Paul Miller always in the thick of things led the forward effort and top drawer performances from flankers Wanklin & Rhys Andrews kept the visitors on the back foot.
Smart work from centre Richard Thomas after a line out win by Paul Thomas gave Pugh and Pugsley the chance to cleave an opening for Jamie Lean and the skipper needed no coaxing to cross. Almost inevitably Sheppard converted.
Front row men Richard Diaz, Miller and Alex Sheehy got in on the act to create havoc in the mid-field and swift handling saw Sheppard cross in the corner. Murmurs of disbelief went around the ground as he narrowly missed the conversion.
Starting the second the second half 26-0 to the good, Sheppard stretched the home lead with a penalty goal.
Richard Thomas again got into the act with a typical burst and No.8 Daniel Owen showed good pace from 22 metres to score. Sheppard converted.
Ystalafera then were reduced to rather dubious tactics to stem the flow and Lloyd received a yellow card and soon, as Quins were dragged into a close quarter struggle both Miller & replacement scrum-half Marcus David received the same treatment. Heroically the six man Quins pack held out on their line for ten minutes without conceding a score.
Replacement Mark Davies displayed his versatility by figuring at flanker, hooker and scrum half in a 15 minute period. In the last movement of the game hard grafting forward Chris Lloyd crossed for a consolation try for the visitors.
Aberavon Harlequins 49 Resolven 15
For the first time in living memory the Quins first XV.fielded twin brothers Daniel & James Owen
Both performed well with No.8 Daniel at forefront of the forward effort and James slotting comfortably into the centre berth
Aberavon Quins thoroughly deserved their victory over a Resolven side that never gave in and indeed the visitors were worth more than the fifteen points they registered.
Sure footed full-back Marc Sheppard started the Quins scoring machine rolling with three well struck penalties and ended the game with eight out of nine successful kicks. The Quins were finding it hard to make much headway in the early stages and Resolven demonstrated superb mauling technique that often scattered the Quins eight. The lines out were also shaded by the visitors but in the scrums it was the Quins that held the whip hand. Props, Richard Diaz and Alex Sheehy had superb games in both tight and loose situations; Sheehy particularly demonstrated handling ability of which any three-quarter would have been proud.
Good aggressive running from scrum half Flynn and flanker Wanklin set up the position on the Resolven line and strong approach work from Darren Nicholas set up the position from which Richard Diaz powered over, Sheppard converted and with 16-3 up it looked particularly ominous for the visitors. Quins however were jolted back to reality when a Resolven rolling maul waltzed the home eight over the line for a try by Nick Read. The Quins looked shaky as Resolven were unlucky to have a try denied them through a forward pass
The Quins re-established their authority when full-back Sheppard swept into the three-quarter line bounced away a would-be tackler and put Mike Parfitt free and the winger needed no second bidding as he sprinted over at the corner.
21-8 up at the interval the Quins looked set to post a very big score. With Marcus David as a replacement scrum half the Quins played a more expansive game. An attempt by Resolven to run out from a defensive position was met with a tackle by Richard Thomas that made the crowd wince. Great follow up play resulted in Richard Wanklin touching down, Sheppard converted.
28-8 down and Resolven looked a well beaten outfit when remarkably from a rolling maul on the ten metre line they rolled 40m to the line for Chris Loyns to score. Neil Galsworthy converted.
Destructive running from Richard Thomas then stretched the Quins lead as he created the chance for slick fly half Gareth Pugh to score, Sheppard converted. Replacement No.8 Rick Parfitt got in on the act with an outrageous dummy and touchdown. Sheppard converted. To complete the scoring a scorching run by Mike Parfitt set up the chance for Richard Thomas to crown his personal performance with a memorable try. Inevitably Sheppard converted. The sponsor’s ‘Man of the Match’ was Richard Wanklin
Aberavon Harlequins 20 Skewen 10
Aberavon Quins were full value for their win although with the game seemingly lost Skewen threw everything at the visitors in a pulsating final ten minutes. Gary Evans struck the first blow for the home side with a well struck penalty. Marc Sheppard levelled in similar fashion for the visitors and eased his team in front with another penalty to conclude a dull first half.
Eye catching performances from flanker, Rhys Andrew, centre Richard Thomas and full back Sheppard put the visitors in the driving seat. Pinpoint accuracy by hooker Miller allowed Andrews to dominate the line out. Strong running from Pugsley and Lean set up several chances and finally great second phase ball from the forwards gave No.8 Dan Owen a chance to link with Thomas who found Sheppard approaching at speed and the full back evaded several would-be tacklers and crash over for a spectacular try, which he duly converted. The Skewen effort clearly wilted as the Quins eight, spurred on by veteran Steve Ridd, dominated the set pieces. The home side were continually on the back foot due to the power of the front row of Ridd, Miller and Diaz. It was Sheppard again who was on hand to set up the Quins second try when, after great work by flanker Mark Davies gained possession and Dan Owen, Thomas and Sheppard to gave Mike Parfitt a chance to gallop for the line. Sheppard converted from wide out and at 20 pts to three down Skewen were in deep trouble.
However, throwing caution to the winds the home side swept to the attack and it took stout defending particularly from Richard Wanklin, Neil Pugsley and Thomas to stem the attacks. A try in the corner from Davies converted by Evans was scant reward for their efforts although tribute must be paid to the defensive work of the visitors.
Aberavon Harlequins 3 Nantyffyllon 27
Nantyffyllon, with former Quins forward Richard Doble in their pack thoroughly deserved this floodlit victory. The Quins battled hard in the first half but found the going difficult up front, particularly in the scrums. The line-out was evenly contested with Rhys Andrews and Rob Jones prominent. With flanker Turner in fine form, Nanty grew in confidence and being well marshalled by scrum-half Paget 10 minutes into the second half the result never looked in doubt. Quins’ problems were compounded by injuries to Rick Parfitt, Neil Pugsley, Richard Wanklin & Craig Cox .
Although well beaten, the visitors deserved more than the Gareth Pugh penalty. With a little better fortune tries might have come the way of Cadfan Edwards & Mike Parfitt
Aberavon Harlequins 18 Vardre 11
The Quins senior team recorded a rare win at Vardre with a fine defensive performance by the whole team. The Quins held the upper hand in the early exchanges and went close to scoring on a few occasions. Strong running by forwards Owen, Nicholas, Miller and Jones created space for the lively Quins backs, only desperate defence by the hosts kept their line intact. The pressure by the Quins was rewarded with Marc Sheppard slotting two fine penalties and this counteracted the usual flying start of the Swansea Valley outfit. The home teams reply was immediate as the Quins forwards conceded a penalty from the restart. Steve Jones placed the touch-kick close to the Quins try-line and the Vardre forwards rumbled their way over for a try against the run of play.
The Quins responded with fine attacking rugby with forwards and backs combining with impressive fluidity, with all the pressure being exerted a try was inevitable. It came in the shape of Marcus David who was in close support of his half back partner, Gareth Pugh who made a half break 5 metres out. Sheppard duly added the extra points and the Quins were good value for their half time lead.
The second half started in the same vein with the Quins holding most of the aces, despite some ill discipline, and the showing of a yellow card to the robust Nicholas the Quins were playing some precise rugby. Centre Thomas put in some fine cross field “sweeper” kicks and the good chasing of wingers Edwards and Lean enabled the Quins to attain good field position.
The Quins second try was another team effort involving forwards and backs. Miller picked the ball out of the base of a quick ruck, good support of Diaz and Sheehy enabled back-row forwards Wanklyn, Andrews and Owen to show fine off loading skills to release the backs; David and Pugsley timed their passes to put Thomas over wide out. Sheppard converted to take the Quins well clear.
This galvanised the home teams’ efforts and they started to play their best rugby of the afternoon. The constant barrage of the Quins try-line was impressive for both Vardre’s endeavour, and also the resolute attitude of the tiring Quins defence. This was epitomised when the Quins forwards defended several close range lineouts, a particular weakness this season.
With the play becoming more frantic the Quins started to lose some of their discipline and Vardre added two penalties to give them a major fillip. Wanklyn and Noble where sin binned after trading hand bag techniques. Mark Davies, on his return from injury, replaced Wanklyn after the 10 minute spell and impressed in his defensive role.
The Quins, fielding a youthful side, showed tremendous attitude with the “older guard” of Richard Thomas and Robert Jones vying for the man of the match award with their indefatigable work rate. Despite the fine victory there is still plenty for the coaches to work on, but there were plenty of positives to take from the encounter, not least the great attitude in defending during what seemed an exceptionally long second half.
The Quins season continues with a journey to old adversaries Nantyffyllon on Friday evening, a fine starter with Wales and South Africa serving up the main course on Saturday.
Aberavon Harlequins Athletic 55 Baglan Athletic 0
The Aberavon Quins development squad provided great entertainment in a nine try romp against a game Baglan XV.
Strongly lead by No.8 & Skipper, Jeremy Williams the Quins back after a slow opening few minutes soon gained the ascendancy in all facets of the game. It was Williams who set up the first attack for the Quins when a 40m gallop gained position in the Baglan 22. The visitors cleared their line only for Mike Parfitt sweep through on a strong run. Forced to concede a penalty, Flynn found touch in the corner and Capper took the line-out and the pack mauled the excellent flanker Kris Trolley over for a try. Parfitt added the conversion. More powerful play from the pack with flanker Karl Davies in fine form swept Baglan back and centre James Owen crashed over, Parfitt converted. Owen’s combination with co-centre Dai Anthony was too much for the Baglan defenders and they constantly set up attacks Parfitt and Chris Jones ran strongly on the wing
It was Parfitt who crabbed the next score with a typical burst. Jones missed the conversion but Parfitt improved the next touchdown by the ever improving Karl Davies. With the line-out domination of Gareth Capper and James Edmunds allied to the dominance of the scrums Baglan were up against but never gave in and the Quins were never gifted any scores. God running from Stu Phillips & Dai Anthony then set up the chance for hooker Glen Williams to Dive over. Parfitt converted.
The second half was a more of the same with Baglan fighting tooth and nail but having little answer to the power of props, Agar & Collins. Little changed when Crockett and Ridd came on as replacements. Scrum half Darren Flynn left the field at the interval after a good first half combination with Phillips. His replacement was former club captain Anthony Williams who soon put in some strong bursts.
Jer Williams notched his first of two tries; Parfitt converted one before being replaced. Chris Jones dummied his way through a tiring defence for the home side’s eighth try and a strong touchline gallop by James Owen after an Anthony Williams break made it nine.
Aberavon Harlequins 21 Bryncoch 11
After suffering successive league defeats the Quins were well worth their victory at wind swept Harlequin road.
The return to first team colours of hooker, Paul Miller and flanker, Richard Wanklin had a direct bearing on the result of a hard fought game. Miller’s throwing into the lines out was excellent in the windy conditions. Wanklin was a constant thorn in the attacking aspirations of the visitors and aided by Rhys Andrews & Craig Cox was always eager to set up attacking options.
Playing into the strong wind in the first half the Quins pack was dominant and consistently denied the visitors the quality possession needed to unleash their speedy backline. Props Alex Sheehy and Richard Diaz held the whip hand in the scrums and line out forwards Paul Thomas, and Andrews took eager advantage of Miller’s accurate throwing. Rob Jones often took the ball on the visitors throw in and was his usual busy self in all other aspects of the game. The defensive qualities of the midfield trio of Ashley Davies, Neil Pugsley and Richard Thomas also snuffed out any likely attacks from the visitors. Dependable full back, Mark Sheppard eased the Quins in front with a penalty goal after driving play from Cox & Miller. Thomas’s mastery of the line out came into the scheme of things when a strong burst from Richard Thomas threatened the Bryncoch defence, good support from Cox & Wanklin gave Cadfan Edwards a chance to run strongly for the line and only resolute defending held him up. Continually swept back in the strong wind the Quins defence was superb and it took a 55m Penalty from Gavin Jones to level the scores. Just on half time Jones eased his side in front with a dropped goal from close range.
With the wind at their backs in the second half, the Quins set about securing the victory. Spearheaded by strong scrummaging the Quins eight with Rob Jones well to the fore placed a grip on the game from which Bryncoch found difficulty in escaping.Strong running from captain Jamie Lean set up an attacking platform and as Diaz, Sheehy & Paul Thomas pounded the line it was Miller who finally crashed over. Sheppard converted and it all looked plain sailing for the Quins as he quickly added a penalty goal.The Bryncoch eight then really caused problems for the home side as they enjoyed a short period of superior mauling and an improved showing in the scrums. Top class forward play opened up the Quins defence and swift three-quarter play saw flanker Chris McNeill touch down.
Quins survived a shaky ten minutes and Sheppard stretched the lead with another penalty. Smart work by Cox followed by a typically strong run from Lean set up a succession of rucks and mauls close to the visitor’s line and Miller again crashed over to ensure a hard earned but well deserved victory.
Aberavon Harlequins 7 Tonna 34
The Quins presented Tonna with their home record with a below par display.
Despite starting brightly with strong running from centre Neil Pugsley carved an opening for Jamie Lean to finish in style. Marc Sheppard converted but that was the final contribution to the Quins account.
The game was disrupted by the referee’s use of his cards. A red and a yellow for Tonna and three yellows for Quins. The game was a clean and fast moving affair and spectators were a little mystified by the card waving.
The Quins pack let themselves down as a unit in the lines out and although a man short for a long period the Tonna seven had no trouble in the scrums. As Tonna revelled in the quality possession three tries came and together with two conversions and five penalties the Quins were sunk without trace.
Aberavon Harlequins 3 Brynamman 23
Brynaman showed the Quins a thing or two about commitment and application and ran out comfortable winners. Had the home side displayed a little more steadiness near the line the winning margin could have and should have been greater. The Quins eight held a big advantage in the scrums and took at least a share of the lines out but the marauding home pack snuffed out any attacks the Quins mounted and forced hurried passes and charged down many kicks, The back row trio of Cadell, Bissicks and superb No.8 Paul Rumming laid the foundation of the well deserved victory.
The Quins looked edgy and indecisive behind and leaden footed up front. Rumming set up the opening try with a clean burst through the middle and winger Steff Jones finished in fine style.
Quins hit back with strong running from Dai Anthony and Mike Parfitt with Marc Sheppard landing a penalty. As the home effort increased the Quins were forced to defend resolutely and good tackling from Neil Pugsley Daniel Owen And Jamie Lean thwarted Brynaman attacks.
The Second half began with a strong 45 m burst from Winger Parfitt who was unlucky not to score. The game wore on with the home eight gaining the ascendancy in the mauls and lock Rhodri Jones sprinted over beneath the posts from 30m the kick failed. The Quins now in complete disarray conceded another try when winger Wayne Jones crashed over. A penalty restart saw Sion Lewis goaling off the crossbar. Adam Rumming sealed the victory accepting a gift try in the corner
Aberavon Harlequins 42 Cwmgors 29
Aberavon Quins kept their spot as league leaders with a thrilling victory over Cwmgors. Playing into a strong wind the Quins soon had the scoreboard ticking over when Paul Miller won a good maul and allowed scrum half Flynn set his backs free and a superb pass by Jason Larkman saw full back Brock enter the line to give Neil Pugsley a gallop for the line. The home side increased their lead when the centre combination of Pugsley and Larkman tore open a gap in the Cwmgors mid-field and fly half Gareth Pugh was always going come out on top of a one on one situation. Back to form left winger Mike Parfitt set up the next score with a strong touch line burst and Pugh was again on hand to side step beneath the posts and deliver the conversion. Sparrow hit back with a penalty. A smart move by the visitors initiated by Geraint Evans allowed Anthony Davies to show a clean pair of heels to the Quins defenders. Quins hit back with great power and were only denied by heroic defending by the visitors. However the inevitable try came when Brock dived in at the corner. With 10 minutes of the half left it looked all over for Cwmgors but they hit back with some top class mauling and Paul Keynes scored, Sparrow converted and was on hand to improve another mauling try in a similar vein from Anthony Thomas bringing the scores level at 22 all half time.
As quite often happens the wind eased in the second half but Pugh and Flynn kicked well for position and Pugh struck a penalty to ease the Quins ahead. The Quins pack although out mauled were the masters at the scrum and No.8 Daniel Owen grabbed two push over tries and unfortunate not to get the reef’s nod on a third. Pugh converted both and the Quins seemed sure of victory but Cwmgors again mauled their way over and Geraint Evans touched town Sparrow converted but Pugh had the last word when he made his personal tally 22 points with a straight penalty.
Meanwhile, the development squad went down to their first defeat 26-17 to a strong Tonmawr outfit.
Morgan Westlake, Andrew Griffiths and Karl Davies scored tries and Jones added a conversion.
Aberavon Harlequins 09 Rhydyfelin 37
Aberavon Quins were dumped out of the Welsh cup without causing Rhydyfelin much bother. The division 2 East side were too big and too physical for the visitors. Although the Quins tackled bravely they appeared to lack the technique to bring their opponents to ground. Consistently missing the first up tackles defenders were left outnumbered and the home side had little trouble running in seven tries. The clearing out at the tackle area was very poor and on occasion non existent. No.8 Billy Lavis ran strongly on several bursts which fizzled out through lack of support. Sporadic attacking runs by Sheppard and Pugsley raised a cheer but to no avail. Sheppard’s three penalty goals were the only reward as the Quins slipped out of the season’s Cup at their first attempt.
Aberavon
Harlequins 35 Kenfig Hill 32
Aberavon Quins kept a tenuous hold on their unbeaten run with
a nail biting victory over the Mules. Both teams revelled in the conditions
and threw the ball about in a great but, error strewn exhibition of open rugby.
Kenfig Hill swarmed to the attack in the opening minutes and the much vaunted Quins backs had to roll up their sleeves and defend sternly. The points were put on the board when skipper Darren Gibbs surged up field. Good work by Jamie Lean and Marc Sheppard saw Jason Larkman give a scoring pass to stand in hooker Karl Robins. Sheppard converted.
Mules swept back to the attack and prop Steve Smith took advantage of poor defending to crash over. Mark Jones levelled the scores with a conversion. The Quins hit back with two storming runs by No.8 Billy Lavis, good play from Mike Parfitt and Sheppard had the visitors at full stretch and Gibbs again drove for the line and burly prop Neil Crocket bulldozed over for an unconverted try. Kenfig Hill were not to be denied and desperate tackling from Pugh, Sheppard and Marcus David kept the line intact and a take against the head 5 yards out seemed to save the day but a penalty award saw Jones netting three points.
Quins returned to the offensive and good work by lock Rob Jones created space for winger Mike Parfitt take a pass from Sheppard and take play to the try line and returned the ball to Sheppard who touched down. The full back could not improve his try. Quins appeared to be able to take the visitors apart but, a speculative kick by fly half Jones brought indecision into the home defence and Greg Cull sprinted over from 25 metres
Facing the slight breeze the Quins saw their two points lead erased by a penalty from the mighty boot of Mark Jones. The visitors lead was short lived as prop Diaz and winger Jamie Lean created the space for Robins to crash over for his second try. Sheppard converted and the pressure was eased on the Quins A penalty from Sheppard stretched the lead but the adventurous spirit in which this new look Quins play often leads to their own undoing and flanker Tony Maund snatched a looping pass from the air an galloped unchallenged under the bar, Jones converted. Some long range touch finders from Larkman eased the Quins up field and scrum half Marcus David became increasingly effective and at least two of his breaks should have produced scores. A quick feed from David to Larkman saw the fly half find full back Sheppard with a perfect long pass allowing Jamie Lean to receive the ball in space and defenders had no chance as he galloped over. Sheppard missed the conversion but minutes later slotted a penalty. From the restart a horrendous mix up in the home defence gifted a try to Mike Guy. Jones converted and it was all hands to the pump as the Mulers strove in vain to snatch a victory.
Meanwhile the Quins development squad containing some members somewhat over developed scored eight tries in a 42 -7 win at Glynneath II.
Wingers Morgan Westlake (3) and Cadfan Edwards (2) Centres Richard
Thomas & James Owen also touched down as did fly-half Darren Flynn while
Chris Jones raised the biggest cheer with a solitary conversion.
Aberavon Harlequins 12 Cwmafan 5
The visitors started well with smart line out ploys from Cottey
& Jones.
The supply of good ball was however, frittered away by a below par performance
from their backs. The Quins with five of last season’s youth team in
attendance tore into Cwmafan and skipper Gibbs and long serving second row
partner Rob Jones stood out. Many would be attacks by Cwmafan foundered in
the face of stern tackling from centres Pugsley and Evans. Flanker, Rhys Andrews
got through a huge amount of work and hooker Miller relished the forward struggle.
Mark Sheppard made heads shake in doubt when he signalled to go for goal from
5 metres into his own half. When the ball sailed over the crossbar the Quins
team were visibly lifted.
Sheppard along with fly half Gareth Pugh continually pushed Cwmafan back with
huge touch finders. The tackling of Rhys Andrews, Craig Cox and Billy Lavis,
the young back row trio, was a vital feature in the Quins victory. Most plaudits
went to the defensive capabilities of the Quins but they still managed some
dangerous attacks. Gary Evans, Neil Pugsley and Jamie Lean looked eager to
exploit any gaps but the Cwmafan defence stood firm. Sheppard then stretched
the lead with a 45 metre goal.He then made it three out of three with another
goal from 48 metres.With a nine point cushion the Quins tried to play a more
expansive game but strong Cwmafan defending kept them at bay. Strong runs
from Mike Parfitt threatened to break down the visitors defence but to no
avail.
Red cards were waved as a player from each side was dismissed and an injury
to Quins replacement hooker Mark Davies, meant the concluding quarter was
played with passive scrums. Sheppard banged over a penalty from the half way
line to put the Quins 12 pts clear At last Cwmafan got it right behind the
scrum and Justin Knight touched down after a good break. It was all hands
to the pump for the Quins as Cwmafan poured on the pressure to gain victory.
Strong defending and a tackle by replacement Cadfan Davies brought a great
ovation from the home crowd. As the final whistle blew Cwmafan were throwing
all at the home side in a vain attempt to snatch victory.
The Quins development squad went merrily on their way with a
victory at Briton Ferry by 31 pts to 5
Neil Davies crossed twice, Morgan Westlake, Marcus David and Stuart Henderson
also touched down David converted two and while his son was playing for the
first XV , Steve Lavis converted another.
Aberavon Harlequins 20 Ystalafera 18
In their first game of the new season Aberavon Quins ran out winners despite a power full forward display by the home pack. I n perfect conditions the game quickly developed into a struggle between the home pack and the sharp Quins backs. The Quins were under pressure in the early stages but good defending kept Ystalafera at bay. With the home side in control of the set pieces, The Quins were forced to live on scraps of possession. Good work from Alex Sheehy, Craig Cox and Rhys Andrews swept the Quins up field and full back Tony Brock eased the visitors ahead with a penalty goal. The Quins stretched their lead when Cox and Paul Miller set up good ball that was swept across the three-quarter line far Gary Evans to beat two would-be tacklers to score. Ystalafera with a wealth of possession tried to mount attacks through their backs but the tackling of Pugsley, Ash Davies and particularly Andrews & Kris Trolley denied the home side. The home pack came into its own when a line out 10 yards out gave them the opportunity to catch and drive Phil Thomas over with alarming simplicity. Using their scant possession well the Quins swept to the offensive with full back Brock in superb form both in his incursions into the three quarters and his eagerness to counter from deep in Quins territory. Starting the second half with the slope to their advantage the Quins were looking favourites to run out winners. The home pack however had other ideas and another catch and drive from a line out some ten metres out resulted in a ty for John Williams, Owen slammed over a penalty and the Quins were behind the eight ball. Adventurous running by Ash Davies, Pugsley and Parfitt stretched the home defence and the Quins were unfortunate not to score. Davies left the field to be replaced by Gareth Pugh and the attacks swept toward the Ystalafera line and Brock crashed over to level the scores. In injury time it was the home eight who seemed to seal victory with another try for John Williams from yet another catch and drive. From the restart the Quins were not to be denied when another attractive three-quarter move saw the supreme finishing skills of Jamie Lean cross at the corner and ground the ball under the bar. Replacement Mark Sheppard calmly slotted the conversion to give Darren Gibbs his first victory as captain. It was good for the Quins coach John Breeze to see the smooth transition from youth to senior rugby of Kris Trolley, Rhys Andrews, Craig Cox, Gareth Pugh & Mark Sheppard.
Many of last season’s youth XV were in evidence as Jeremy Williams
led the first Quins Athletic team on the field for twelve years in a visit
to BP Llandarcy and tries from Jamie Morgan(2), Dan Phipps, Morgan Westlake
& Jon Agar allied to three conversions and a penalty from Billy Lavis
saw the Quins home by 34 points to 13.