Quins take honours in Big Game showdown

THE 15th and possibly biggest Big Match to date saw Quins in prime form for much of the game against a stubborn Gloucester who fought hard, if unsuccessfully, to avoid their eighth consecutive Premiership defeat.

- BRENDAN GALLAGHER

Marcus Smith, save for some wayward kicking from the tee, sparkled in all departments and generally Quins buzzed to excellent effect to score five tries but Gloucester also had their moments and deserved their two bonus points. A massive 76,813 crowd were royally entertained by the lights show and disco before the game and the match itself matched all the hype. A feel good evening for English rugby.

By kick off the energy was high and it was Harlequins who immediately plugged into the vibe, starting with the pace and intensity they usually display when trying to overhaul a big lead. There were going to be some tries despite the wet greasy conditions.