Harlequins game requires squad effort, says Leeds Carnegie’s Denton

After the disappointing loss at Wasps, lock Tom Denton was quick to stress the unity of the players and a collective desire from those set be involved against Quins, and even those on the bench, to put in a good performance at the weekend.

“The whole squad really wants us to do well, so I think whatever position you are in you have got to be buying in to what we have got to do,” said the 23-year-old York-born forward.

“Even when you are playing week in, week out you do feel the pressure, but you have to deal with it.”

A Leeds win will go a long way to keeping the Premiership dream alive with Newcastle Falcons on equal points but with a valuable game in hand. They are in action Friday night against title-chasing Leicester Tigers.

The home team will be boosted by Harlequins’ dismal away record in the league this season, that boasts just a solitary victory. That could be decisive in a game of such importance to the home side, one which sees the impressive Denton continue rebuilding his form after injury.

The second row acknowledged his good form this season but emphasised the gravity of the upcoming game and its effect on relegation-threatened Newcastle.

“It’s a must-win, they all are this year but this one more so because it means if we win we put more pressure back on Newcastle again.”

After coming back from injury to play in the Wasps game, Denton was reflective over that result but upbeat about the forthcoming test.

“It was hugely disappointing that result, no-one really expected it,” he said.

“We have reviewed it and we are just moving on, and we’re looking forward to Harlequins now.”

Leeds are set to be without inspirational captain Marco Wentzel who is still struggling with hamstring and calf trouble.