WHO would have predicted that after the opening three rounds of Super League XVI, Harlequins would be top of the table with three wins out of three?

An opening-day Millennium Stadium triumph over Catalan and then a hard-fought 20-18 home win over Crusaders were not the greatest shocks in the world.

But to then back those up with a 36-26 success at Leeds Rhinos last Friday was a totally different matter!

That was the clearest indication so far that the Quins of 2011 may just be a side to be feared after all.

There’s no question that many were expecting this year to be a massive struggle for the Londoners.

Not only were they to be under the charge of rookie coach Rob Powell following the departure to Leeds of Brian McDermott, but they also lost top performers Danny Orr, Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook, Ben Jones-Bishop, Will Sharp and David Howell.

But it would appear those big losses have been successfully absorbed and the Quins have the potential to go from strength to strength.

WITH the departure of influential scrum-half Danny Orr to Castleford, experienced Aussie hooker Chad Randall has been charged with the task of taking Quins’ chief playmaking role.

Not surprisingly, he has risen to the challenge effortlessly.

Randall has been one of the Londoners’ most important players since arriving from Manly Sea Eagles six seasons ago, and it’s clear 2011 will be no exception.

Ground name: Twickenham Stoop, Langhorn Drive.

Where’s the ground?: Exiting the M4 at junction three, take the third exit for the A312 towards Feltham. Then use the A312 for almost five miles. At the next roundabout turn left onto the A316, then go straight over at the next three islands. Twickenham Rugby Stadium will be on your left, enter the Stoop via Longhorn Drive some 450 yards further on.

Sat Nav checker: TW2 7SX.

Lost and need directions? Call the Harlequins on 0208 410 6000.

Car parking? Try Rosebine Avenue next to the stadium.

Did you know? Officially re-named the Stoop Memorial Ground in July 2005 after former England international and long-time Harlequins player Adrian Stoop.