Thank you MrOther for pointing out to others the blindingly obvious.

Over the past 15 years or so seasons I've heard every possible excuse for a poor  Harlequeens' league position - from the weekly 'disappointing performance' missives in 'Scottie Speaks' - to Mark Evans saying the club was 'punching above its weight' when finishing 6th or 7th - to the mindless media confetti endlessly uttered by CoS and copied by JK.

We all start the new season with high expectations and legacy of 'the best ever Quins squad' (according to the previous DoR). However, we must temper any pre-season optimism with the reality that we begin a new era under the direction of a coach with no previous DoR experience at any level, assisted by a hastily assembled and unproven coaching team.

I hope Gustard will give us a clear and honest analysis of his expectations and the team's performances - win or lose. Let's also hope his fresh ideas rekindle the careers of an ageing core squad who have got used to losing at club and international level.

If Quins are to improve they must beat their closest bottom 6 league rivals (Sale, Bristol, Gloucester, Wuzz and Saints) whose recruitment over the summer appears to have been significantly more impressive. Time will tell if it is better  - the league position by the end of November should give a good guide!!!

The coaching team do not have the luxury of three years to put together a squad in their own image. Any slip on last season's results and it's back to Championship rugby.......