With our disappointing league position, the chance to play such an important game as a cup semi-final is a welcome opportunity for the team to regain some form and confidence on the pitch - where it really matters.

Having said that, in London Irish we face possibly the second best team in the Zurich Premiership - behind this seasons Champions elect Leicester Tigers. The Irish have a strong squad. They are playing both well individually as well as collectively as a team. Their ball retention is tremendous. They show great patience when carrying the ball, not worrying if they are not making progress, just continuing to recycle until the space appears.

Their defence is also very good. You will see on Saturday a solid line of green shirts across the pitch whenever we are in possession and although they appear to get away with being offside constantly around the ruck and maul area; it is their good organisation that allows them to do this. We face a very difficult challenge on Saturday.

Mark Evans has continued to work hard with the squad this week on our strategy for this game and for our important Zurich Premiership matches in the weeks ahead. Our senior players have worked closely with Mark and the coaching team and if we can transfer the enthusiasm that has been visible on the training park this week into the arena on Saturday afternoon, we will certainly give London Irish a good game.

The team this Saturday will be led by Jason Leonard with Garrick Morgan dropping to the bench. Keith Wood will captain the team once he returns to full fitness, which we hope will be within the next seven days.



Keith has worked hard with our medical and fitness staff over the last ten days and is progressing rapidly, but unfortunately the Irish game is a little too soon for him after almost a three-month lay off.

The news on David Wilson is not so good. As I reported previously, his knee reacted badly when he stepped up his training. Having spoken with the medical people in Queensland and with David himself, it is likely he will need to undergo an arthroscopy relating to his cartilage.

Although there are not four points at stake on Saturday, it is an important game for NEC Harlequins. The chance to return to Twickenham for the final in April and put right the wrongs of last seasons 'lineout decision,' as well as the chance to create a springboard from which we can build on for the remainder of this season as we look to avoid relegation.

Saturday will be a tremendous day for Quins, its sponsors and supporters. But there is no point getting an invitation to the party and turning it down on the eve of the do - with your support (and noise) we will give it our best shot in looking to reach the Powergen Cup Final on 20th April.

See you on Saturday.