MATCH PREVIEW – Harlequins v Sale Sharks Women

Sale Sharks Women venture to the Twickenham Stoop to face Harlequins Women in round 14 of the Allianz Premier 15s (KO 3pm)

Katy Daley-Mclean wants her Sharks to stick to their DNA against reigning champions Quins as they look forward to a Sunday special at the Stoop.

Sale Sharks Women’s Performance Lead said: “When we look through results against the top six teams we’re always in the mix, but that second half is the bit where we probably fall a little bit off the wagon.

“Our big challenge for the girls this week as a coaching team is about how they can recreate more of the first half in the second and to just keep believing that, if teams do score which in rugby is inevitable, we can get back on the horse and rectify that.

“And focussing on the things we do well – in previous games we’ve tried to address a load of problems rather than just keeping to our way and our DNA, that’ll be a big thing against Quins.”

After a pair of improved performances against Gloucester-Hartpury and league-leaders Saracens in January, Sharks were undone by Bristol and Loughborough at home.

Harlequins have lost just two Premier 15s matches to Exeter and Saracens since they last played Sharks and sit third in the league table.

Katy said: “We know they’re a really strong side with some really good ball carriers, evasive runners and handlers, so it’ll be a case of not worrying too much about them and sticking to our processes.

“I think to be honest it’ll be great playing at the Stoop. Having that shelter given the current weather will allow for a nice game of rugby.

“For the girls, it’s a nice opportunity – we don’t get that many to play at top grounds at the moment, the stoop is really well maintained, so for us it’s something to look forward to and enjoy.”

Previous results

27 Nov 2021 Sale Sharks Women 10 Harlequins Women 36

27 Feb 2021 Sale Sharks Women 5 Harlequins Women 45

14 Nov 2020 Harlequins 31 Sale Sharks Women 0

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