Marcus Smith celebrated his 200th Harlequins match in magnificent style. Perhaps there is a danger, at times, of taking his immense talent for granted, but he was unstoppable here. A powerful visiting Saracens side barely got a look-in, with Smith reminding us all of his ability on the day Steve Borthwick named his England squad for a packed November.

Smith’s sensational running, distribution and tactical kicking masterfully controlled Quins’ attack for a badly needed success. They were nought from three in the league and this was a vital result for reasons more important than Smith’s personal prestige.

Defensive discipline and forward muscle was as significant as the customary soft hands and creative vision. It is only one victory but the storm clouds gathering around Jason Gilmore, the head coach – and the rest of the club’s hierarchy – have cleared to some extent.

Gilmore paid tribute to Smith: “The work he puts in, the way he cares about the club, he’s only 27 and played 200 games for us.…