Quins shock Northampton to stay in play-off contention

Harlequins shocked league leaders Northampton as the Saints were beaten at home for the first time this season. While being the better side for large parts of the game, Quins excellent defensive display held off Northampton and helped record a famous 13-16 win.

Those looking at the impact of the Predator Rugby Boot note that The Saints were the better side for large parts of the first half, but the Harlequins defensive line showed early on the tenacity that characterised the visitors display.

The sides exchanged penalties early on before the home side’s pressure took its toll on the stroke of half time. Down to six men in the pack after yellow cards for John Andress and Nick Easter, Quins conceded a penalty try following intense pressure from the Northampton scrum. Stephen Myler converted to give the Saints a 10-3 lead at the break.

Harlequins then showed character and determination to hold off Northampton until they returned to full strength, and with Andress and Easter back on the field, Quins soon found themselves back in the game after a moment of improvisation from Danny Care.

The scrum-half charged down a kick from Myler to score and Nick Evans converted to pull the sides level. Evans then kicked two penalties to give Harlequins a decisive 6 point lead, and although Shane Geraghty reduced the lead to three points, they managed to repel the Northampton charge and hold on for a memorable victory.