Quins' Director of Rugby, Dean Richards, give us his thoughts on this weekend's monumental Heineken Cup Quarter Final clash between Harlequins and Leinster, Sunday 12th April, Twickenham Stoop, kick-off 3.30pm.
"We are now firmly in the business end of the season and it doesn't get much bigger than the Quarter Final of the Heineken Cup.
"Our form of late has been good and in many ways we are probably the side that most people fear. We've come from nowhere - a poor run in last season's Heineken Cup and a mild record in last season's Guinness Premiership - means we have nothing to lose and have everything to gain, so the expectations are low. Couple that with our 'Quins' style and our undoubted fantastic team spirit, and it means that we have things going for us that most sides haven't; ambition, flair and belief. The relative anonymity of our young side, who have little international experience compared to that of the Leinster side, should see Leinster wondering what they are likely to expect from us.
"However, our opponents are an experienced team who are a real force to be reckoned with. They have a host of world class players, with the likes of Brian O'Driscoll, Gordon D'Arcy, Rocky Elsom, Felipe Contepomi and Jamie Heaslip to name but a few. They boast 19 full internationals and seven Ireland A internationals within their squad. Having always been the bridesmaids in this competition, I'm sure they'll be aiming to make amends on Sunday afternoon.
"It is the first time we have had a Heineken Cup Quarter Final at The Stoop, so let's make it a day to remember. Thank you all for your support, and enjoy the game."
Please be aware that the Mighty Quins Village will be shut on Sunday, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Happy hour will be running in the bars at the Stoop before the game, from 1-2pm, and the screens in all the bars will be showing the other Quarter Final between Munster and Ospreys.
We would also like to make you aware that the bars will be shutting at 3pm, half an hour before kick off, to make sure you are in your seats for the exciting pre-match entertainment we have lined up for the game.
Quins v Leinster
Heineken Cup Quarter Final
Twickenham Stoop
Sunday, 12th April, Kick-off 3.30pm