Quins have pride in defeat

2:37pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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Brian McDermott inisists Harlequins RL are making progress - even though they slipped to their third defeat on the bounce at the weekend.

Quins' 36-26 Challenge Cup loss to Leeds Rhinos at the Stoop on Sunday was also the third game in succession that McDermott's men have let slip a winning lead late on.

But the no-nonsense coach remained in bullish mood.

"We are taking huge steps in terms of confidence but not so in terms of getting results," he said.

"It is frustrating but we are getting there.

"In rugby league you can jag the odd try here and there and sneak games but that does not help in the long run.

"With what we are trying to do, in terms of our style, when that comes off it stays with you a lot longer."

Despite an early try from Tony Clubb, Quins found themselves 24-4 down early in the second-half to the world champions.

But a stunning display after the break saw Henry Paul and Danny Orr each grab a brace of tries to send Harlequins into an unlikely lead, only for the Rhinos to clinch victory with two late scores.

And McDermott admitted morale had been hit.

"There were tears in the dressing room," he said.

"There is a risk that to be so close so often that players will stop going in where it hurts.

"But our guys go in balls deep, and they pushed every sinew.

"I cannot ask for any more."

Quins return to league action this Sunday when Hull visit the Stoop.

"We just have to make sure we play the same," added McDermott.

"Hull have got a few bodies back and will be a lot stronger than when we played them earlier in the season.

"It is not going to be easy."