Paul Gustard embarrassed by Harlequins performance as he reflects on 'career low'

Harlequins head of rugby Paul Gustard says the first-half of Wednesday’s defeat to Worcester Warriors was one of the lowest points of his coaching career.

Quins, who made 14 changes from the team that lost to Saracens on Saturday, were “steamrollered” early on and went in 26-0 down at half-time. They fought back in the second-half, but still left Sixways Stadium with a 29-14 defeat.

“Everyone is hurting. That first 40 minutes is one of the lowest points of my coaching career,” said Gustard.

“We never got to fire a shot, we were on the back foot all the time. I am embarrassed. It was a sobering first 40 minutes.

“We didn't think we picked people that were going to get steamrollered, but that’s exactly what happened.”

Harlequins are now seventh in the Premiership and 12 points off Bath, who sit fourth. They’re also just three points above London Irish in ninth, who are still looking for their first win since the restart after losing 13-7 to Leicester Tigers last night.

Saracens meanwhile, who are already relegated, picked up their second win on the spin yesterday evening by defeating Gloucester 36-20 at Allianz Park.