Here is the article with the requested Markdown formatting:
Bristol Bears Clinch Thrilling 28-53 Victory Over Harlequins in Twickenham Stoop Clash
In a high-scoring affair at the Twickenham Stoop, the Bristol Bears secured a brilliant 28-53 win over Harlequins, despite both teams missing out on a semi-final spot as the regular season concluded.
The hosts were in the game for an extended period, with Chandler Cunningham-South scoring a brace of tries, while Alex Dombrandt and Luke Northmore also crossed the line. Marcus Smith’s reliable boot contributed five conversions.
However, the visiting Bristol side was outstanding, putting in a superb performance despite losing key players Callum Sheedy, Ellis Genge, and Benhard Janse van Rensburg in the first half. Pat Lam’s charges managed six tries through James Williams, Genge, Gabriel Ibitoye, Harry Thacker, Max Lahiff, Noah Heward and Gabriel Oghre. Kickers James Williams and Sheedy were both accurate, contributing a combined total of five conversions and two penalties.
“The high-octane contest came at a cost, as Janse van Rensburg, Sheedy and Genge were all forced off before the break. The England prop Genge ended the game on crutches and in a walking boot, which will be a concern for head coach Steve Borthwick.”
Harlequins managed two tries of their own through Cunningham-South and Dombrandt, but it was not enough to prevent the Bears from taking the victory. Early in the second half, Harry Thacker’s try secured the bonus point for Bristol, though Quins responded through Northmore before a second Cunningham-South try gave them the lead for the first time.
However, the boot of Williams and further scores from Lahiff, Heward and Oghre allowed the Bears to retake the lead and stretch clear, though it was not enough to crack the top four.
The result means Bristol Bears will be disappointed to miss out on the semi-finals, despite their impressive performance, while Harlequins will also be left to reflect on what might have been.
đź”— Source
