Clermont Auvergne vs Harlequins

Harlequins suffered a second defeat in the Heineken cup in Pool 4 to Clermont Auvergne. Harlequins fell 23-16 at the Parc des Sports Marcel Michelin. A second successive defeat was almost prophecised as the French side extended their formidable home record to 65 games unbeaten.

Harlequins find themselves stranded at the bottom of the pool after losing to the Scarlets at home in the previous fixture and are set to face Racing Metro 92 next. The only saving grace was the bonus point achieved after a drop goal from Nick Evans late on.

The first half showing from both sides was frenetic as the crowd received value for money. Clermont Auvergne full back Lee Byrne opened the scoring with try down the left wing as the French side haemorrhaged the Harlequins defence with a series of attacks. Brock James was unable to convert the try from a difficult angle on the touchline.

Harlequins registered points on the board with a penalty but truth be told Clermont were still looking the more dangerous side as their backs continued to pressure the Harlequins defence. They were rewarded as Wesley Fofana broke through two men to score their second try. The French side continued to dazzle the opposition as Sivivatu and Byrne set-up scrum half Lacrampe for a third try.

After James converted the try, Harlequins attacking mindset proved to be fruitful as England full back Mike Brown set-up Williams for a try leaving them within touching distance of the French side despite overwhelming pressure. Although they stifled the attacking threat of the opposition in the second half they could not close the gap much further as James converted another penalty. Harlequins were able to salvage a bonus point to take something home with them from a difficult fixture.