Harlequins travelled to Kiama Showground on Saturday for the top of the table clash in the Illawarra district rugby competition. The home side, having not been beaten since a one point loss to Harlequins in the first round, were obviously still smarting from that and promoted the game as redemption day. Unfortunately for them, the boys from Campbelltown came to play, winning 39-20, reports ANDREW CHOICE.
Harlequins started well with some early possession to score in the corner after only five minutes of play.
However, as has been the trend in recent weeks Harlequins gifted Kiama field position from the restart and the home side scored to make it 5-5 after 10 minutes of play.
With both sides playing some expansive and entertaining rugby the score see-sawed, with both sides exchanging tries.
The score was tied at 15-15 after 30 minutes but Harlequins did pull away late in the second half to lead 22-15 at the break.
After a constructive half time break Harlequin came out and played what was possibly the best 30 minutes of their season so far.
On the back of a dominant scrum, they scored early to push their lead out to 12 points.
With constant pressure on Kiama, Quins were able to run in another three tries to lead 39-15.
The last 10 minutes saw the home side regroup and with a mountain of possession they hammered the Harlequins line.
A resolute Harlequins defense thwarted several Kiama attacking raids.
Quins finally succumbed on full time, allowing Kiama to salvage a bonus point.
Harlequins scored six tries all up, and the final score of 39-20 flattered Kiama.
Earlier an injury ravaged Harlequin second grade went down 38-12 to one of the competition front runners.
It was a gutsy effort from the boys, who are still in touch with the top four and looking forward to this weekend.
This week quins are at home with the ladies taking on Parramatta two Blues at 11.30 followed by the men’s two senior grades taking on Camden in the local derby – first grade kicks off at 3 pm.
It is also Harlequins Old Boys weekend, so get down to Campbelltown Showground, catch up with old friends and watch some great rugby
IDRU ROUND 12 RESULTS – FIRST GRADE:
Bowral 83 Defeated University 0
Vikings 48 Defeated Camden 34
Campbelltown Harlequins 39 Defeated Kiama 20
Shamrocks bye
Wet weather make up game:
Shoalhaven defeated Shamrocks by forfeit
SECOND GRADE:
Bowral 29Defeated University 10
Vikings 21 Defeated Camden 15
Kiama 38 Defeated Campbelltown Harlequins 12
Shoalhaven Defeated Tech Waratahs by forfeit
Shamrocks bye