The physical battle is key for Leicester Tigers at Saracens this weekend, according to Matt Toomua.
The Australia international is anticipating a massive contest against the reigning champions at Allianz Park on Saturday as the Gallagher Premiership returns for the first time since the first weekend of January.
“Saracens obviously play a structured and physical game, so to have any chance – particularly down there – you’ve got to match them physically,” he said.
Tigers recorded a famous bonus-point win in this fixture last season, but Toomua is under no illusions about the effort required to produce a repeat performance.
He added: “We obviously did well down there last year, and we want to use that as a blueprint with a few finishing touches on top.”
While this week sees a break from the Six Nations, both teams look set to be without some of their internationals.
“I think it’s the elephant in the room,” Toomua added. “Everyone’s aware of it, but we just try to crack on. For us, the guys we have away are mainly in the backline, and we still have a couple of internationals there during this period, so that’s a positive for us.”
Saturday’s match is the first in a run of five league games in six weekends, which includes home fixtures against Wasps on Saturday, March 2 (3.00pm) and Northampton Saints on Friday, March 22 (7.45pm). Tickets are available now.
