Brett Deacon believes the Tigers Development XV’s victory over Wasps A demonstrated his young players’ willingness to learn and improve.
Tigers ran in four tries in a 31-20 bonus-point victory over Wasps in the Premiership A League in front of a healthy crowd at Welford Road.
Ben White was alert to a loose ball to score the first try before Harry Simmons was in support to finish Jordan Olowofela’s run for the second. Tigers led 14-5 at the break.
Wasps fought back with two quick-fire tries midway through the second half as replacement hooker TJ Harris finished off a couple of lineout drives.
But Tigers steadied themselves and completed the bonus-point through tries for lock Sam Bailey and replacement back Ben Pointon. Tom Hardwick enjoyed a 100 per cent record from the tee as he kicked the other 11 points.
Senior development coach Deacon says he was impressed by how the team absorbed some of the lessons from the defeat against Northampton Wanderers at Franklin’s Gardens in their previous outing.
“Against Northampton last week we had a really good first half but fell away a bit in the second half and they took over the game,” he said.
“Our key message from that was to get off to a good start, produce a good performance in the first half and then to back it up.
“We did that, apart from a 10-minute block where we dropped off and Wasps grew back into the game.
“But credit to the boys, they gathered round each other and showed a bit of resilience and got back to playing in the right areas.
“It shows they are learning from their experiences and developing their game, which is great to see.
“We need to build on that for the game against Newcastle on Sunday, and need a stronger performance for longer.
“We don’t want to have that 10/12 minute block where we are losing touch with the game. We need to be in control of those things.”
Scroll down to watch highlights of the game.
The Tigers Development XV return to Welford Road this Sunday for the next round of ‘A’ League action with a match against Newcastle Falcons Development Team. Kick off is at 3pm.
Entry is free for season ticket holders and members, and season ticket holders will also be able to download a link on their email to source four tickets for friends and family. Entry for all other supporters is £5 adults, £1 juniors at the ticket office on the way to the game.
