Quins connection to Esher survival fight (From Sutton Guardian)

Quins connection in Esher survival fight

3:00pm Friday 20th April 2012 in Harlequins By Stuart Amos

Former Esher winger Sam Smith may have his eye on the Premiership title, but it has not stopped him sparing a thought for his old club.

Director of rugby Mike Schmid’s men go to London Scottish in the Championship relegation play-offs tomorrow needing a win by more than seven points to claim the bonus point needed to stay up.

They also need to stop the Exiles from scoring four tries of their own.

Smith’s Harlequins, on the other hand, host Leicester Tigers looking to secure top spot in the top flight knowing the Molesey Road outfit have played their part in successes at the Stoop.

A host of dual-registered Quins academy stars and fringe first team players – including Smith – have learned their trade at Esher during the club’s two seasons in the second tier.

A Seb Stegmann try set them on their way to a stunning 42-17 win over Plymouth Albion on Saturday that took their survival battle down to the final day.

And Smith, who helped Quins beat Wasps 33-17 on Saturday, has backed the Surrey side to prevail.

“I learned a lot at Esher and always keep an eye on their results,” he said.

“Players like Ross Chisholm, Seb Stegmann and Charlie Walker have been there this year, which helps me keep in touch.

“It would be great if they could stay up. I think they can do it and I really hope it they pull it off.”