Tigers, with two wins and a draw going into the Round 4 fixture against defending champions Harlequins, were beaten 22-9 to record a first home defeat since the fixture against the same opponents last October.
“We needed a bit more composure and be more clinical in attack when we had our opportunities,” said Tigers director of rugby Cockerill.
“We need to be better at taking those opportunities.
“We had chances to put them under pressure and score points but we didn’t do that. There was that vital part of the game in the second half when a score would have put us into a position to go on and win the game.”
Quins claimed the only try of the game, with the Tigers points coming from three Toby Flood penalties.
“Give credit to Quins for coming to play and taking us on – fair play to them,” said Cockerill. “Their continuity is very good if you don’t shut them down.”
Tigers return to home ground this Saturday when they host an Exeter Chiefs side who are one place and one point behind in the Aviva Premiership standings. Tickets are available now.
