Harlequins boss Billy Millard: 'He’s gone up a gear in his leadership'

Harlequins director of rugby Billy Millard hailed two “unbelievable” tries from wingers Louis Lynagh and Tyrone Green and the return of Marcus Smith after the 40-12 victory over Newcastle Falcons.

Lynagh and Green crossed in acrobatic fashion in front of a packed out Twickenham Stoop as Quins romped to a six-try win which took them top of the Premiership with Smith, back from international duty, pulling the strings and captain Alex Dombrandt impressing with a try and an assist.

“Those two tries were unbelievable,” said Millard. “Tyrone has been out for a long time and that connection between him and Marcus is pretty special.

Marlie Packer reacts to winning WXV1 and World Player of the Year

Marlie Packer reacts to winning WXV1 and World Player of the Year

“Obviously they haven’t played for a while but Tyrone is getting better and better each week. From minute one, Marcus is bouncing and talking and all over them, so it’s awesome to have him back.

“Alex is just surging at the minute, his timing, his confidence and his ball carrying, he’s gone up a gear in his leadership and he’s been immense for us.”

“I’m always pleased with a bonus point win at home and we’ve got too massive ones in front of us so it was important to keep momentum,” said Millard.

Newcastle were left to rue missed early opportunities when trailing 21-0 at half time after tries from Sam Riley, Dino Lamb and Nick David.

They rallied late on with a penalty try and a score from replacement hooker Jamie Blamire but boss Alex Codling insisted they must improve their error count if they hope to secure a first league win of the season.

“I thought in the first half we dominated for large parts but it’s a microcosm of our season,” he said.

“We didn’t get over the line, held up, knocked on. Quins are extremely clinical. They took the chances and we didn’t, that’s the bottom line.

“It’s the theme of the first four games. The margins in this league are too small if you make mistakes and we made too many, most of our own doing and we came up short.

“We’re just like a boxer at the minute, we throw loads of jabs but just can’t find the knockout punch. We’ve got Saracens next week so we better find it quick.

“I knew it was a massive challenge when I came into the job and nothing has changed.

“We could have and should have been three from three and we’re not. You can’t fault the effort and ambition.

“We’re trying to change the way we play, the way that historically we’ve played for years, and it’s going to take time.”