Dafydd James' opportunist try capped a second-half comeback that gave Harlequins a precious Zurich Premiership win over Bath.

Quins trailed 15-3 at half-time but Bath, missing 23 squad players because of injury or international calls, wilted after the break and Quins claimed their fifth win of the season to climb above relegation rivals Leeds Tykes.

Quins skipper Andre Vos was an inspiration, tackling his heart out and setting up a 44th minute try by left wing Ugo Monye.

The crucial score however came on 63 minutes when James scored an opportunist try and fly-half Jeremy Staunton converted to give Quins the lead.

Bath's trials and tribulations continued right up to kick-off. Alex Crockett bravely declared himself available for selection despite a hernia but Bath spared him further pain by getting Ryan Davis released from England Under 21 duty in time to take his place.

Then Matt Perry pulled out after straining a muscle in a warm-up, forcing a reshuffle which saw Joe Maddock switch to full back and new signing Steve Booth made his debut on the wing.

The visitors nearly went ahead after just 10 minutes but Maddock was alert to the break by Steve So'Oialo and it was 23 minutes before Staunton kicked the penalty from 28 metres.

Five minutes later Bath second row Rob Fidler celebrated his 150th Zurich Premiership appearance by galloping 15 metres for a rare try and Chris Malone converted to give Bath a 7-3 lead.

One of Quins most dangerous runners was full back Tom Williams but Bath took advantage of an embarrassing mix-up with Monye which left Williams needing attention after a sickening collision. Malone kicked the resulting penalty to make it 10-3.

The home side were well in control at this stage and hooker Lee Mears burst through the Quins defensive line to score in first half injury time.

Monye's try four minutes into the second half, converted by Staunton, wrested the initiative however and Quins spent most of the second half on the attack.

Bath's difficulties escaping from their own half were compounded by Maddock's big kick straight into James' arms on 63 minutes, leaving the former British Lions centre with a simple run to the line.