Kingston: Quins have their best squad ever

DEPARTING Quins boss John Kingston insists he is leaving the club with their best squad since the game went professional.

“I believe the squad we have assembled is the strongest we have had in 17 years,” he said. “The 2012 title was built over time. We have got a very strong squad, there were 20 players missing again today – nobody should underestimate Quins’ ability to kick on.

“I’m settled and content in believing it (leaving) is the right thing for the club. I just wanted the group to put a shift in today – they did, the game was in the balance with 15 minutes to go, but they had too much poke.

“It’s been an honour and pleasure to be part of Quins, I’m very saddened the way the last few weeks have gone it was never my wish that would be the case. I have given everything I could to Quins in the time I’ve been here.”

Exeter boss Rob Baxter said: “It did look like we could do some damage when we put our foot down. There were no injuries which is a bonus. We have got a ten-day training window for what will be the biggest game of the season for us.”