There were fireworks but no fairytale finish as Bristol Bears spoiled , dismissing Harlequins 48-24 to move top of the Premiership table. Pat Lam’s team have become formidable opponents on the road and were in no mood to roll over for a retirement party, plundering six tries. Benhard Janse van Rensburg produced another phenomenal performance at centre as Bill Mata marked his first Premiership outing for the Bears in some style.
Both crossed the line, as did Kalaveti Ravouvou, Gabriel Ibitoye, Kieran Marmion and Santiago Grondona. Harlequins played their part in a predictably action-packed affair, claiming the consolation of a bonus point thanks to tries for Alex Dombradnt, Cadan Murley, Luke Northmore and Tyrone Green. However, they would end up considerably short of a leaving present for Marler.
09:28 PM GMT FULL-TIME! It rather fizzles out in the end, but Bristol were mightily impressive there. In no mood to indulge in a retirement party, they storm back to the top of the table for 24 hours at least. 09:25 PM GMT 77 mins: Harlequins 24 Bristol Bears 48 Cursed him.
Dombrandt has a run down the wing but shins a kick ahead into touch on the full. 09:24 PM GMT 76 mins: Harlequins 24 Bristol Bears 48 Harlequins in possession as this one winds down. Nathan Jibulu is carrying hard and Dombrandt is still working out there.
09:21 PM GMT Meanwhile...
Newcastle are going to beat Saracens. They are still 17-5 up, with minutes remaining. 09:20 PM GMT PENALTY, Bristol Bears! MacGinty i.
