Saracens 30 - Harlequins 10

Harlequins' title defence ended at the Semi-Final stage at Saracens with the former champions proving too strong at home.

The visitors had seemed the more dangerous of the two sides during the opening phases of the match, with a few early chances ultimately repelled by the home side.

It was a powerful reply from the North Londoners, claiming a 15-point lead within the first 25 minutes thanks to a dominant set-piece and strong one-out runners that saw England forwards Poppy Cleall and Marlie Packer claim a try apiece, with USA centre Alev Kelter adding her first penalty of the day before Quins added points of their own.

Try-scoring sensation Jess Breach would be the one to get Quins on the scoreboard, with the winger crossing in the left corner courtesy of fellow England international Amy Cokayne. A tough touchline conversion attempt from centre Lagi Tuima hit the uprights.

Despite Harlequins showing real intent to play attacking rugby, Saracens claimed a score just before the break to hold a 22-5 lead heading into the second half.

Saracens further pressed their advantage in the second half, with hooker May Campbell benefitting from a strong set-piece this time, with Kelter also adding a second penalty of the day to take the home side to 30 points for the day.

Quins battled to the end with Cokayne claiming the final score of the match as the visitors flexed their own set-piece muscles with a powerful driving maul two minutes from full-time.