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Mele ready for second season with Tigers

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David Mele says he is feeling positive on the eve of his second season in Leicester Tigers colours.

Former Perpignan scrum-half Mele became a big favourite with supporters during the 2013/14 season, while also leading the Tigers team as captain in only his 15th appearance since the move from France.
 
The feeling is mutual as Mele says he always wanted to play in England and has settled well at Welford Road.
 
Now he is looking towards a second season with the club and he played a prominent part in the pre-season win over Edinburgh last Saturday, sealing an 11-10 win with a penalty from the last kick of the match.
 
“It was my decision to go for the kick,” Mele says. “I just saw the referee with his arm out and I said, ‘That is mine, I can kick it’. Seremaia asked me if I was sure and I said yes.
 
“I don’t care if there are 3,000 or 80,000 in the crowd, it is my job, I practise and when I have to kick I expect to kick well for the team.”
 
Mele had replaced team skipper Ben Youngs at scrum-half during the second half in Scotland as he gained his first match appearance of the pre-season period.
 
“The game was a bit too stop-start, there was not a lot of tempo, and we know we have to be better next week,” he said. “It was good to get the win but we know what we need to do and prepare well for the next game.
 
“It’s good to get some time on the pitch. I really enjoyed my pre-season. My fitness trainer says I worked hard and I improved with each week so it is good to be ready for the new season.
 
“I have really enjoyed my second pre-season here. It is tough but if you work hard you will be fit on the pitch and enjoy what you do.”

Tigers have a final run-out ahead of the new seaosn against Cardiff Blues at welford Road on Friday (7.30pm). Tickets are available now. Call in, phone 0844 856 1880 or book online by clicking here. This match is included in season tickets.