Harlequins 45 Ulster 19

For the second week running Quins trounced their British opposition in the Investec Cup and are now assured a home game in the next round.

Louis  Lynagh scored two tries which was ironic as he only played because of  a late injury to Cameron necessitated a reshuffle with Nick David going into the back three.

Both tries were fortuitous as the ball bounced back in the path of Lynagh who must still be praised for chasing down what looked a lost cause.

Quins had six players selected for Steve Borthwick’s Six Nations Squad including forwards Joe Marler, Chandler Cunningham-South and Alex Dombrandt in the pack and Oscar Beard, Danny Care and Marcus Smith behind them; that three Quins forwards should be picked reflects a tougher persona – we are no longer the Fancy Dan Toffs.

I cannot see Quins winning the cup as Toulouse, Bath, Bordeaux Bègles and Saracens are all stronger sides but there should be some fascinating encounters and match-ups.

Finally, a word on Louis Rees-Zammit taking the NFL Pathway.

For two reasons I cannot see this working out.

Firstly, the ex-Worcester Warrior Christian Scotland-Williamson tried it and said the 120 plays he had to work out every night were more taxing than his bar exams; it’s not a simple game adaptable to rugby skills.

Secondly, and following from that, Reed Zammit is doubtless looking to maximise his burning pace as a wide receiver. Here he will have to anticipate the quarterback play and take a pass over his shoulder, not behind, and moreover he will have a monster tight-end bearing down on him.