Despite moving to the West League, London Welsh had lost none of the ferocity we’ve come to expect from them. The atmosphere was high octane and we had a game sure to delight the assembled spectators.

Starting once more at fly half, Kate Sinaroni stamped her name on the game with some decisive calls from the midfield. Welsh set tenacious vigour throughout both defence and attack, extracting payment from Quins Ladies at every turn. Despite this intensity, Quins put on a display of showmanship, with notable pace and skill from new players Julie Gilbert and Shannon Mullen and from old hands Zoe Jeanes, Nat Smith, Katherine Smith and Jo Ballentine. Nat Smith’s efforts came good when she plunged her way through the Welsh defensive line to score a try in the corner. Unfortunately not converted.

Thrusting into the final third, both teams were feeling the heat of the day but relentless in their pressure upon one another. Once more Nat Smith made a break away, ably supported by Julie Gilbert and Rebecca “Bruce” Hickey. Shipping the ball out to Isia Storey on the wing some great team play saw her over the try line. The subsequent kick was unsuccessful.

From the re-start, the Welsh scrum half made a great run, surging deep into Quins Ladies’ half. A kick to touch from the Welsh and a good drive from the ensuing line out gave Welsh the opportunity they were looking for. A good kick and unexpected bounce allowed them to sail over the line for their first try of the game. This was not converted.

Valiant attacking efforts from both sides kept the match electrifying and it’s a shame this wasn’t translated into more points for either team. The game also marked the return of one Quins’ player, absent from the pitch through injury for almost 2 seasons, who was utterly delighted to get back on the pitch.

Forward of the match as awarded to the ever-impressive prop Zoe Jeanes, with Back of the match going to recent winger convert Alex Leigh.

Harlequin Ladies’ Squad: Zoe Jeanes (prop), Amy Smith (hooker), Katherine Smith (prop), Alice Gayner (second row), Kyra Howell (second row), Nat Smith (flanker), Julie Gilbert (flanker), Laura Quinn (number 8 and Team Captain), Sophie Hill (scrum half), Kate Sinfield (fly half), Rebecca Hickey (winger), Shannon Mullen (centre), Katy Strudwick (centre), Melanie Antao (winger), Isia Storey (fullback). Subs: Kirsty Rennison, Lauren Cooper, Jo Ballentine, Jo Everett, Alex Leigh.