Preview: Harlequins v Cardiff Blues
By Worried of Whitton
January 23 2010
Harlequins kick off their final pool match in this year’s Heineken Cup completion against Cardiff Blues on Sunday January 22nd at 15.00 pm at The Stoop. Harlequins record in this years’ competition has been dire with five losses out of five and only have two bonus points to show for their endeavors. Played 5 Lost 5 does not give a true portrayal of their performance in the completion.
Whilst we did not expect an away victory inToulouse last week the team came out fighting and held their own for most ofthe first half, taking the lead through a converted try. The turning point ofthe match was close to half time after Toulouse had gained a slender lead through three penalties, at 9-7 when acontroversial forward pass was over looked and Toulouse established themselves16-7 at Half time. Most of the second half was one way traffic with somesublime moves, ball handling passing and support by the home side, giving Quinsa master class. Being reduced to14 men with another controversial decision, Toulouse pushed for bonus point tosecure qualification for the final rounds, and once secure it could be arguedthat they stepped of the gas. Quins never really gave up and their hard workand perseverance finally paid off with two classic tries from Uuuuuuuuuuugo.All in all despite the loss, it was a very enjoyable weekend with good companyfood, beer and wine. The Toulousians were very hospitable and showed greatwarmth to the travelling supporters. Toulouse is an interesting, walk ablecity, full of French culture …. Ifonly they d keep those pavements clean… Merde!!
A dead match for Quins? Cardiff will want to push for a win with a bonus point asthey have a chance of a runners up position in the pool. Well no it is not for Quinseither as they need to quickly get back to winning ways, and more than anythingelse and must treat this match and the two following LV cup matches as theiropportunity to do this prior to re asserting themselves in the Guinnesspremiership when it returns in February.
Cardiff put paid to Sale’s hopes in thecompetition after a comprehensive 36 -19 home win, which was probably their bestperformance of the season so far and will be full of confidence to overcomeQuins at The Stoop. Quins will find the Cardiff team tough opposition lead byGethin Jenkins who as part of a strong pack put in a solid performance againstSale with half backs Rees and Sweeney prospering accordingly. One to watch willbe Cardiff lock Davies whose aggressive and abrasive nature was used to goodeffect against Sale.
Quins need to use this match as a stepping stonefor the rest of their season to build towards a final push in the Premiershipto ensure Heineken qualification next year.
Come on YouQuins!
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