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Burke happy with final hit-out

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Backs coach Paul Burke says Leicester Tigers will aim to "fire on all cylinders" when the new season begins next weekend.

Tigers scored four tries in a 30-10 victory over Ulster Rugby in the final warm-up fixture on Saturday, with scores from Niall Morris, David Mele, Anthony Allen and Sebastian de Chaves.

An injury to Toby Flood was the biggest concern for supporters in a 17,000-strong crowd, though Burke remained positive afterwards as Tigers begin the final countdown to the Aviva Premiership kick-off against Worcester Warriors on Sunday.

“We used 34 players and it was a good hit-out for the squad,” said Burke. “We looked after some of them after half-time and made more changes later.

“Ulster do not have all of their players available yet, but they sent a strong side. With a week to go to the start of the season it was important for us to get a win here and we did some good things.

“It was important we gave the squad game-time and gave an opportunity for the new guys to bed in and push their claims. It is important they figure in the Leicester jersey and settle in as quickly as possible.

“We had a look at some options and combinations. We’ve got some real quality in the squad. We want those guys firing on all cylinders for next week.”

After Flood left the field on a stretcher after just 10 minutes, Ryan Lamb gained a run in the No10 shirt, and fellow new signings Mele, de Chaves, Neil Briggs, Jerome Schuster, Jamie Gibson and Owen Williams all enjoyed a run-out at Welford Road, while Tigers ended the game with a youthful backline including Scott Steele, George Catchpole, Henry Purdy and Perry Humphreys.

The new season begins on home soil on Sunday when Tigers host Worcester Warriors. Kick-off is at 2pm. A day of activities and entertainment for the whole family at Tigers In The Park starts at 10am. Entry to Tigers In The Park is free. Match tickets are available now from the Tigers ticket office.