Harlequins director of rugby Conor O’Shea cut a frustrated figure after his side’s narrow European Champions Cup defeat at Leinster on Saturday.

The Dubliners gained revenge for their 24-18 defeat at the Stoop on December 7, thanks to a 15-14 win at the Aviva stadium.

Despite the defeat, Quins, without the injured Chris Robshaw and Nick Evans, remain top of Pool Two.

Next up for Quins in the pool stages are Wasps at the Stoop on January 16.

A Mike Brown try, and the extras from Tim Swiel, had O’Shea considering a famous win in Dublin, but it was not to be.

“We were a very frustrated group of players and coaches because we came close to getting what would have been a historic victory,” he said.

“The message at half time was to be patient because although we didn’t get on the scoreboard in the first half we felt there was room there.

“On the balance of play in the second half we probably deserved the win, but I am sure they will be thinking the same thing.

He added: “But our destiny is in our own hands and we will go into the new year full of confidence – it’s going to be a great finale, I can sense that.”

Evans is expected to return for Saturday’s visit of Newcastle Falcons in the Aviva Premiership, while Robshaw (shoulder) remains a doubt, and be out of action until the new year.