Champions Harlequins win Premiership Rugby opener

Harlequins made a winning start to their English Premiership title defence on Sunday, edging Newcastle 26-20 in an enthralling game at Kingston Park.

Quins -- with Tommaso Allan pulling the strings from number 10 -- crossed the whitewash four times to Newcastle's three and head back to London with all five points.

The visitors opened the scoring in the 11th minute through Louis Lynagh and extended their lead midway through the first half with a try for Joe Marchant.

Allan, deputising for Lions tourist Marcus Smith in style, added the extras on both occasions.

But Newcastle hit back immediately, with Adam Radwan using his pace to beat Andre Esterhuizen into the corner and scored another try when Iwan Stephens raced in from 20 metres.

Just two points separated the sides at the break.

The Londoners stretched their lead in the 43rd minute as Lynagh once again scored in the corner after quick hands from Allan.

Ten minutes later Newcastle's Sean Robinson intercepted a pass in midfield from Danny Care and made 20 metres before feeding Louis Schreuder, who had the gas in the tank to score in the corner.

Care ensured Quins won a bonus point, sniping through a gap from the base of a ruck with Allan's conversion taking the lead to nine points.

Will Haydon-Wood knocked over a penalty with the clock in the red to give Falcons a losing bonus point.

Harlequins director of rugby Billy Millard praised Allan, who has won 61 caps for Italy.

Smith is currently sidelined due to the mandatory rest period for British and Irish Lions players.

"Tommy Allan slotted into the system really well," said Millard. "It's not easy stepping in especially with big boots to fill unless you're smart, skilful and experienced.

"That's what he brings to the table. He is an international quality player who is very balanced, and he's done very well."