London Welsh head coach Justin Burnell has backed his team to avoid relegation from the Aviva Premiership following their 52-0 thrashing by Harlequins.

The Exiles continued their losing start to the season on Saturday as they were hammered at Twickenham Stoop.

Despite taking just one point from their opening five games of the campaign, Burnell is confident that his side can survive in the top flight this year.

"We were well beaten as we were up against a very good Quins side who placed us consistently under the cosh," he is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

"I am still confident we can survive but we will have to learn quickly as this league is the best club league in the world and is going up in levels each year."

London Welsh are back in action next Saturday when they entertain fellow strugglers Newcastle Falcons.