Quins end Shannon dreams of double

SHANNON’S hopes of a possible AIB League and Cup double were dashed at Deramore Park on Saturday as Belfast Harlequins edged them 32-28 in a seven-try thriller.

Darren Cave and Stewart Philpott scored first-half tries for Quins but it was 17-17 at the break as Frank McNamara and Colm McMahon replied.

Tries from Paul Marshall and Paul McKenzie put further daylight between the teams before Les Hogan’s try gave Shannon hope, but Niall O’Connor’s injury -time penalty booked Harlequins a decider with Garryowen.

Scorers for Harlequins: Tries: Darren Cave, Stuart Philpott, Paul Marshall, Paul McKenzie; Cons: Niall O’Connor 3; Pens: O’Connor 2.

Scorers for Shannon: Tries: Frankie McNamara, Colm McMahon, Les Hogan; Cons: Andrew Thompson 2; Pens: Thompson 3.