Harlequins began their 2026-27 European Challenge Cup campaign with a 57-19 bonus-point victory over French club Vannes. The win saw the English side score nine tries, despite their current position at the bottom of the Prem league after losing all three of their opening matches.
Marcus Smith, an England back, was a key contributor, scoring 22 points through two tries and six conversions. Captain Cadan Murley and Will Evans also scored two tries each, with further tries coming from Will Hobson, Sam Riley, and Jimmy Staples.
Vannes, who are at the bottom of the Top 14 league with four losses, managed to score three tries. Wayan De Benedittis and Enzo Benmegal, who scored two, were the try-scorers for the French team.
This match marked Harlequins' first appearance at this stage of the competition since 2018. They will now aim to carry this momentum into their upcoming Prem derby against Saracens next Sunday.