Ben Tapuai believes that Harlequins have more to offer and still have work to do despite their victory over Agen on Saturday.

The game had its highs and lows, an array of scruffy plays and slick opportunities from both sides, but the most distinctive trait shown by both teams was determination.

The two sides fought vigorously but the Harlequins came out on top to open up their European Rugby Challenge Cup campaign with a 54-22 victory.

Tapuai was happy with the result, acknowledging that it wasn’t Harlequins’ best performance, and that the team still has room to improve to reach their optimum level.

“We are proud of the effort the boys put in but we know, as a team, that there is a lot to improve on in all areas,” said the 29-year-old.

“All we can do is train hard and put our best foot forward every week. With the game-plan Gussy [Paul Gustard] has put in place, it isn’t necessarily about the personnel but about the position.

“And we know whoever plays in that position next week in Grenoble will know their job to achieve for the team.”

Semi Kunatani made his debut, making a good impression on Tapuai by scoring two tries.

“He is a real rogue player,” said the Australian. 

“Yes, he got a couple of important scores but all the pack worked hard to get us the result.”

Meanwhile, New Zealand international Francis Saili made his first appearance back following a groin injury, coming on for Nathan Earle, who injured himself while scoring his try 42 minutes into the game.

Tapuai said: “It was awesome to see him [Saili] back.

“There is serious competition for places in the centres and across the whole squad, which makes us all step up our game.

“Paul [Lasike] would have been putting his hand up too to play had he not got injured last week, so it is good for the squad to have this competition and it gives the coaches a headache when it comes to selection, which is great.”