Celtic Crusaders 18-40 Harlequins RL

The Celtic Crusaders slumped to their ninth defeat of the campaign with a thumping 40-18 home reverse at the hands of the Harlequins. Adam Peek , Marshall Chalk and Mark Dalle Cort ran over consolatory tries for John Dixon's struggling side. Messageboard regular SteveC has given us some thoughts on the game which, despite the glorious sunshine, was watched by a season-low gate of 3,009.

Quins bossed the early stages of the game and racked up an eighteen point lead thanks to tries from Tony Clubb, David Howell and Danny Orr.

Adam Peek got the hosts back into the game before the interval, but Chris Melling and Orr kept the visitors firmly in control.

Marshall Chalk and Mark Dalle ran over tries for the hosts, but Luke Dorn's double secured an emphatic win for London's Super League representatives.

Just 3,009 watched proceedings as Cru remain four-points adrift at the bottom of the Super League table. Next up is a trip to the JJB Stadium to face the Wigan Warriors before Castleford Tigers journey to the Brewery Field.

Messageboard regular SteveC gave us some thoughts on a thoroughly depressing afternoon for Cru's supporters:

"I was going to write a few words on today's game but in truth the score really says it all. We never really got going and IMHO the Quins never really got out of third gear in beating us.

"Just 3,009 people witnessed the game and I guess it was partly due to the first visit by a less well supported side, i.e. Hull and Saints had far more followers. What made it worse was that from where I was sat all you could hear were the Quins fans. Our crowd was lifeless and insipid!

"Looking around, there are too may just strolling around or chatting over a beer rather than getting into the game and supporting the boys - the row behind me spent a part of the second half discussing how many New Zealanders had played (RU) for Wales! I am starting to wonder if the game is more a curiosity value for some or even if they are there on a 'complimentary' so the game has no real value!

"A telling moment was when the fans voted for the MoM. Normally whatever the result a fans vote would be a home player, but (and in truth I didn't bother to vote as no CC player had really stood out) when a Quins player won the vote it tells me more of their fans chose to get involved in the process.

"I was heartened to see Jace start the game, but he was quiet throughout and I am not convinced he was fully fit. I hope he has not been rushed back too soon with detrimental effects.

"If you are looking for a plus, the game was played into the teeth of a really strong wind and we did struggle to get out of our own 20 for much of the opening period and were 18-0 down too soon. However, we failed to use the same wind in the second half so maybe this is just clutching at straws."