Shannon wary of Quins’ revolt

AIB LEAGUE champions Shannon were warned of the bid to topple them as far back as December 18 at the Grafton Arena in Belfast.

Shannon captain Tom Hayes confessed yesterday that the build-up to the festive season was full of unhappy memories from the week before Christmas, after Belfast Harlequins carried out a smash-and-grab exercise to steal a 19-18 victory.

Shannon led by 18 points in the 65th minute, before Harlequins scored what appeared to be a consolation try. Then, in injury time, they got struck for two more and took four crucial league points to strengthen their bid for a top four position.