Premier Division - Round 5
Harlequins 3 entered the 5th round on 10 points, 6th on the ladder and confronting the competition leaders and pacesetters, Footscray, in a match to ensure they stayed in contention with the league pacesetters. On a windy afternoon, Footscray got off to a great start with some strong runs from their powerful forward pack and were soon ahead 7 nil. It was at this stage that stand in skipper, Korey Graham stood up and lead the Quins forward pack back into the game. Powerful and controlled phase phase, clever back line play and a stiff wind at their back saw the Quins reply with two tries before the half time to go into the break at 12-7 up.
It was the second half that Quins stood up and took the game away from the competition leaders. With Nick Kearton at 9 leading the forwards, intelligent play from maturing no 10 Matt Sutherland and strong running from Pims in the centres, the stiff headwind and a fired up Footscray were no match for Quins and two more tries were scored to see Quins up 22-7 with 20 to go. A try against the flow of play saw the scoreline tighten to 22-14 but the composure and heart from a maturing team turned the tide from the fast finishing Footscray and another try was added to ensure that Quins finished the game ahead 29-14, with the bonus point secured.
Man of the match was the inspirational stand in skipper Korey Graham, two points to no 10 Matt Sutherland and 1 point to Nick Kearton. Strong mention must go to Pims, Hamish, Boof and Cam for strong performances in an outstanding team performance.
