Gloucester secure bonus-point win over Quins

Gloucester returned to Gallagher Premiership action at Kingsholm and claimed a bonus-point victory over Harlequins, on a day that marked milestone appearances for Lewis Ludlow and Ollie Thorley.

Although Gloucester controlled early possession, Harlequins opened the scoring after 10 minutes. A breakdown penalty allowed Marcus Smith to kick to the corner, and following several attacking phases the visitors created space out wide for Cadan Murley to finish. Smith’s conversion attempt struck the post, leaving the score at 5–0.

Gloucester responded soon after. Full-back Ben Redshaw produced a strong solo run from distance, breaking the defensive line and stepping past the final defender to score under the posts. Ross Byrne converted to give the hosts a 7–5 advantage.

The next score came after a sustained period of pressure from Gloucester that yielded no points. Harlequins regained territory through a scrum penalty, and Smith again kicked deep into the corner. From the resulting platform, captain Alex Dombrandt powered over from close range, with Smith adding the conversion to restore a 12–7 lead.

With the final play of the first half, Gloucester regained the advantage. A speculative grubber kick bounced awkwardly inside the Harlequins’ 22, and Lewis Ludlow reacted quickest to collect the loose ball and score. Byrne converted, giving Gloucester a two-point lead at the interval.

Halftime: Gloucester Rugby 14 – 12 Harlequins

The second half began with both teams exchanging territory and contesting breakdown momentum. It took until the 60-minute mark for the next score, when Gloucester capitalised on an attacking opportunity created by a break from Thorley. With an advantage in place, Byrne delivered a wide pass to Redshaw, who crossed for his second try. Byrne added the extras from the touchline to extend the lead to 21–12.

Harlequins responded shortly after through a Smith penalty, narrowing the deficit to six points.

As the match entered the closing stages, Gloucester again built pressure inside the Harlequins’ 22. Their width in attack created a two-on-one overlap, with Thorley finishing in the corner. Byrne’s conversion attempt struck the post, leaving Gloucester ahead 26–15.

Harlequins pushed for a late score, but Gloucester’s defence held firm, ensuring the home side secured both the win and a try bonus point.

Full Time: Gloucester Rugby 26 – 15 Harlequins

Gloucester now turn their attention to European competition, with Castres visiting Kingsholm in the opening round of the Investec Champions Cup next weekend.