Quins chief pleads for leniency ahead of European hearing

HARLEQUINS chief executive Mark Evans has pleaded for his club not to be thrown out of European competition before Monday’s appeal hearing into the fake blood scandal.

European Rugby Cup (ERC) Ltd disciplinary officer Roger O’Connor has lodged an appeal against Harlequins’ €250,000 fine — with 50% suspended — in the belief it was too lenient.

In an open letter of apology to supporters, Evans insisted Harlequins had been punished severely enough and deserved their place in this season’s Heineken Cup. He also reiterated the club’s support for Tom Williams, who is appealing against his 12-month ban for fabricating a cut to his mouth.