Quins stretch Premiership lead

Former England international Nick Easter touched down for one of Harlequins' three tries as they extended their lead at the top of the Aviva Premiership with a 30-21 victory over Sale Sharks.

Cameron Shepherd's try took Sale into an early lead, but Quins controlled the rest of the half with Tom Williams touching down and Ben Botica adding eight points with the boot.

Botica continued his fine form in the second period with another penalty before converted scores from Easter and Charlie Matthews sealed a fine victory, their 12th in 13 games.

Richie Vernon and Sam Tuitupou scored consolation efforts in the last few minutes for Sale, but the result means they still reside at the bottom of the league.

An astonishing finish at Kingsholm saw Gloucester record a remarkable 29-13 win over Worcester with a late penalty try.

With 20 seconds remaining, Jonny May burst away on the left flank and reached the visitors' 22 before attempting to step inside full-back Errie Claasens, who felled the flying wing with a trip.

On the advice of the TMO Claasens was sent off and Gloucester awarded a penalty try, converted by Rob Cook, which broke Worcester hearts as they seemed set for a shock win which would have allayed their relegation fears.

Henry Trinder scored the other Gloucester try with Cook booting 16 points in total and Ryan Mills a further three.

Joshua Matavesi and Alex Grove crossed for Worcester with Andy Goode booting 10 points and Danny Gray kicking three.