Jade Konkel scored two tries as Allianz Premier 15s champions Harlequins beat high-flying Saracens 36-17 in a stunning performance.
Sarries were unbeaten going into the game and hoping to move back ahead of Bristol Bears at the top of the table with a win, but instead it was the reigning champions who proved far too strong.
May Campbell’s early try put Saracens ahead, but they soon lost England star Poppy Cleall to the sin-bin.
Konkel got the first of her tries immediately afterwards, and despite another penalty from Zoe Harrison, Quins led 19-10 at the break as Fiona Fletcher and Emily Scott crossed.
That dominance continued after the break, Sarah Beckett powering over from close range. And while Hannah Botterman got a try back for Saracens, Konkel had the final say for the visitors.
That win meant that Bristol end the weekend top of the pile but they were pushed all the way by Worcester Warriors in a 14-12 victory, with Amber Reed’s last-gasp conversion the difference.
The England centre held her nerve from out wide after Holly Phillips’ try to seal victory against 14 women, with Worcester’s Sioned Harries sent off midway through the second half.
And World Rugby Player of the Year Zoe Aldcroft made an important contribution as Gloucester-Hartpury edged their West Country derby clash with Exeter Chiefs 10-8, getting the first try of the game for the visitors.
In France Montpellier, led by France second row Safi N’Diaye, got the better of Lille Métropole Villeneuvois 29-7 and they sit top of the Elite 1 Pool 2, two points clear of Stade Bordelais who have a game in hand.
Bordeaux got the better of Lyon 20-3 to move ahead of Blagnac, who were not playing this weekend.
Meanwhile in Italy Valsugana Padova continued their perfect start to the season with a 77-7 victory over CUS Milano.
They now lead by six points from Villorba, who got the better of CUS Torino 29-10, with Rugby Colorno winning the other game of the weekend 92-0 against Benetton Rugby.
