BOURNEMOUTH’S Joe Tarrant received a glowing report after featuring for London Irish in their Aviva A League clash against Southern Conference leaders Harlequins on Monday.

Tarrant came off the bench to replace Scottish international Geoff Cross and caught the eye during an enterprising 40-minute second-half run-out at the Twickenham Stoop.

Front row Tarrant, who played for the Exiles against Saracens Storm in November, made a 40-metre line break and a try-saving tackle during his substitute appearance.

And although London Irish went down 34-7 in front of a crowd of more than 1,200, Tarrant was singled out for praise by British Lion Adam Jones who played for Quins.

Bournemouth head coach Will Croker said: “Declan Danaher (London Irish forwards coach) has asked to speak to us about Joe later this week.

“It is really exciting for him and Bournemouth RFC as it shows we are able to offer a pathway unmatched in the south.”

Tarrant has been a key figure in Bournemouth’s impressive first half to their National Three South West campaign.

Lions, who have won four of their past five league games, will be hoping to maintain their promotion push when they visit Old Redcliffians on Saturday.