Rock bounce back from Shannon defeat

Blackrock 22 Belfast Harlequins 14

Blackrock bounced back from their second half collapse against champions Shannon last week, to defeat Belfast Harlequins 22-14 at Stradbrook.

The Dubliners - who also posted a 19-7 success over 'Quins at Deramore Park last season - scored three tries through prop Ian McLaughlin, centre Andy O'Neill and hooker David Gavin as 'Rock moved clear in the second period.

McLaughlin had shown a clean pair of heels on 20 minutes off a close-in ruck to open 'Rock's account. 'Quins, luckless against Dungannon last week, held an 8-7 lead at the break though thanks to Jonny Lowe's try and news signing Thomas Horner's penalty.

Former Ireland Under 21 Conor Kilroy, who converted McLaughlin's effort, endured a penalty duel with Horner after the break as the 'Quins full-back pulled the visitors 14-10 clear.

A great chip ahead by substitute centre Michael Price saw O'Neill in for his second in two games, and a late pushover trip from Gavin robbed 'Quins of a bonus point.