Harlequins booked their ticket to the Champions Cup last 16 with a 24-7 victory over Glasgow Warriors at the Twickenham Stoop on Saturday. The English side scored three tries through Chandler Cunningham-South, James Chisholm, and Cadan Murley to see off the Scottish champions, who could only muster one try in response from Tom Jordan.
Flying Start for Quins
The hosts raced out to a 17-0 lead in the first quarter thanks to scores from Cunningham-South and Chisholm. Cadan Murley, who was recently named in Steve Borthwick’s first England squad, made key contributions in the build-up to both tries with a cross-kick assist and a blindside run. Fly-half Marcus Smith tacked on a penalty to stretch the advantage.
Moment of Magic from Glasgow
Glasgow showed their attacking flair with a stunning try on the half-hour mark finished by Tom Jordan. It came directly from a scrum, with slick handling by Stafford McDowall, Kyle Rowe, and Jamie Dobie carving Quins open. That score made it 17-7 at the break.
Quins Close It Out
The second half was more attritional, with Glasgow dominating possession and territory but failing to convert pressure into points. The decisive moment came in the 68th minute when Quins forced a turnover and Murley raced away for their third try. There was no bonus point fourth, but the win was enough to seal qualification.
Work to Do for Knockout Stages
While Quins will be satisfied to reach the last 16, this performance suggests they will need to raise their game significantly to make deeper inroads in the competition. Their defense was stretched at times by Glasgow’s attacking threats, and they struggled to assert control for large periods. But with game-breakers like Murley and Smith, Quins will still feel they can threaten any opponent if they hit top gear.
Another team through will be of some consolation to English rugby.
– Michael Aylwin
- Harlequins join Leicester, Sale, Saracens and Exeter as English teams in the Champions Cup last 16
- Glasgow’s European campaign is over despite a spirited display
