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Rugby Union

Varndell guides Tigers to victory

06/01/2008

A hat-trick from Tom Varndell led Leicester to a 42-13 win over Harlequins in the Guinness Premiership at The Stoop.

The winger boosted his chances of being picked for the England squad for the Six Nations, which is announced on Wednesday, with a dazzling display.

Tom Croft touched down twice for the Tigers while Andy Goode kicked four conversions and two penalties, to put Leicester into third place in the table.

Quins, who trailed 6-10 at the break, scored a consolation try through David Strettle while Chris Malone kicked two penalties.

The home side began brightly and two penalties from fly-half Malone gave them the lead after 18 minutes

Varndell, who was only recalled to the side after outside centre Dan Hipkiss pulled out with a groin injury, got his first try when he collected Goode's chip and scored under the posts.

The Tigers cranked up the tempo in the second half with a drop goal from Geordan Murphy and a second penalty from Goode increasing their lead.

Croft then crashed over in the corner for his first try after a brisk Tigers' counter attack led by skipper Martin Corry.

Varndell grabbed his second with a stunning solo run after catching the ball from his own line.

Goode continued to torment the Quins' defence and his cross-field kick found Croft who touched down.

Varndell then completed his hat-trick after receiving Aaron Mauger's pass, while Strettle crossed the line late-on for the home side.