Warwick University 0-16 Cardiff Harlequins

SEMLA Intermediate Flags, Semi-final

13th March 2010

For Cardiff Harlequins, the 2010 SEMLA Flags Finals could be a red letter day in the club’s history. With Harlequins A already certain of their place in the Minor Flags final, as well as the league title in the bag, the pressure was on the 1sts to emulate that achievement and reach their third consecutive Intermediate Flags final. They did so with room to spare, but this was a long way from vintage Quins and there will need to be an honest appraisal of their failings in this match if they are to achieve a record hat-trick of Flags titles.

Having beaten Warwick twice already in the league this season, Cardiff were understandably confident ahead of the trip to the south midlands. The ever-immaculate Warwick pitch should have allowed a free-flowing game, whilst the hosts played their part with a gutsy performance, but instead it was a stunted and stuttering display from Quins illuminated only by an outstanding debut from midfielder Paris Hawkes.

With nearly half of Cardiff’s squad on international duty with Wales the following day, it is perhaps understandable that the midfield were occasionally found wanting when it came to transition, with chances lost due to a lack of purpose and drive. However, the real culprit for much of the first three periods was Cardiff’s shocking profligacy in front of goal as shot after shot after shot sailed high, wide or straight at the keeper. Indeed, it was well into the opening quarter before the deadlock was broken when Hawkes combined with Will Barrett for a classic give-and-go break, to beat the keeper from close range. However, with only one more score before the end of the period, there was much to address at the break. Throughout the second quarter, things slowly improved as Quins created goal-scoring opportunities with virtually every attack and began to edge away. Poor shooting continued to dog the Cardiff offense however, a problem compounded by a lack of discipline in maintaining the attack shape, and it was only thanks to the resilience of the Quins backline, lead by Casey Hughes in net, that they were not put under more pressure.

Despite further words at halftime from skipper Adam Grey, Cardiff’s annoyance at their inability to find the net turned to frustration as more chances went begging. The problems continued until midway through the 3rd quarter, when Warwick’s goalkeeper suffered a nasty gash to his calf, causing a 20minute break whilst medical treatment was sought. With the result beyond doubt, Quins offered to loan the hosts goalie Casey Hughes for the remainder of the match, with Andy Morgan stepping between the sticks for the visitors. After a brief warm-up, the game restarted and Harlequins seemed a different team. Much of the fluidity returned and, perhaps from the challenge of facing the best keeper in the league, Cardiff's finishing improved dramatically. Hawkes repeatedly danced and jinked his way past helpless defenders, completing a stunning hat-trick as Cardiff finished the match in a manner more closely resembling their earlier performances.

And so Harlequins will take their place in the SEMLA Intermediate Flags Final on 17th April, where they face Bristol Bombers. Captain Adam Grey will have concerns that the fluency and vision which have characterised Harlequins’ season so far was conspicuous by its absence, and hints of complacency seemed to be creeping in. However, Cardiff will take heart from their refusal to resort to individual playmaking, instead persisting in the team-oriented attack which has served them well for most of the season. They will be well aware of the formidable threat posed by Bristol, and must be vigilant in avoiding any repeat of the wastefulness or complacency which have dogged Cardiff’s recent performances. If they do, the prize of a league and cup double, as well as becoming the first team ever to win the SEMLA Intermediate Flags three years running is within their grasp. For all the plaudits they have earned this season, all teams are measured by the silverware they bring home. Harlequins have won nothing yet.