It has been extremely pleasing, but of course it makes the loss at Newcastle that bit harder to swallow. How ironic, we lose our first match in seven games and England win theirs. A great performance, and nice to see our boys playing such a large part in it.

Onto today's visitors, Sale, whose last victory away from home, in all competitions, was at Worcester in the Guinness Premiership back in January. They will be determined to change their fortunes on Sunday at the Stoop. Like ourselves, they have a number of players unavailable for one reason or another. They will have to cope without the experienced Sebastian Chabal, Jason White or Lionel Faure, but of course we too have lost some key players in the shape of Ugo Monye, Danny Care and Nick Easter.

Today gives us a great opportunity to right the wrongs of last week, but it will be an extremely tough game.

I look forward to seeing you at the Stoop on Sunday."

Harlequins V Sale Sharks, Sunday 22nd March. Kick off 3pm.