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Steve Diamond's 25-word description of Marcus Smith after loss to Quins
By PA
Steve Diamond admitted his Newcastle side struggled to cope with “world-class” Marcus Smith after the England fly-half produced another quality performance in Harlequins’ 28-14 victory at Twickenham Stoop.
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Smith kicked eight points to drive Quins forward after they had fallen behind to an early John Hawkins try, with scores from Nathan Jibulu, Will Evans, Leigh Halfpenny and Will Porter leading them to a comfortable victory.
Diamond felt Smith, who was starting his first game for Quins since returning from his touring exploits with England in New Zealand, made the biggest difference between his visitors getting any reward for their exerts and leaving empty-handed.
The Falcons Director of Rugby said: “Smith is a class player who looks cool. Every time he gets the ball he’s never under pressure, conducted everything and is a world-class player.”
Quins head coach Danny Wilson also reserved special praise for his star number 10, and said: “I’ve just told Marcus that was his pre-season friendly because he’s not been able to put the Quins jersey and boots on for a while.
“He’s had a long lay-off so to come back and be as influential as he was is testament to the man.”
Former Wales star Halfpenny was also outstanding on his home debut for Quins since being recruited in the summer following his spell in Super Rugby with Crusaders.
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The 35-year-old full-back, who is playing for his fifth team in four different leagues, looks to be a useful addition to the squad, with Wilson saying: “He is so tough and brings so much to the club with his vast experience, knowledge and skill-set.”
Wilson was also delighted with the result but admitted his side are far from the finished article.
“It’s a good home win and five points, but there’s still plenty to build on,” said the Quins boss.
“The intent and line-breaks were there but the accuracy was missing. A good Newcastle side kept in the game but we perhaps also allowed that to happen.”
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Newcastle will have to wait a little longer to enjoy more Premiership success, having last savoured victory 554 days ago.
However, Diamond remains optimistic his side can eventually put that dismal record straight.
He said: “It could have been a cricket score at one stage and the lads did really well to keep it tight and almost get right back into things.
“At least we put up a good performance and we will get that win which is being elusive up to now. Quins are a good side and they were better than us on the day, but the spirit is strong amongst the lads.”
Just can’t transition to test level though.