First, the senior squad were able to add more game-time to their preparations for the new season and, second, Tigers were able to avoid picking up any new injuries with the new Aviva Premiership season just a week away.
“I was pleased with the effort from the guys and also getting through without any new injuries, especially after losing Jordan Crane last week,” said Cockerill.
“We were a little bit sloppy at the start of the game, but the weather played a part in that and everyone is finding their feet.
“We had a lot of ball in the first half and we kept at them and we got the four tries in the end, so I’m reasonably happy with it.
“The young lads came through in the second half too and they did pretty well.
“We put two different teams out because everyone needed to get a bit of a run-out and we didn’t want guys going into the season without a game for two weeks.”
Cockerill is also happy with the work done by the squad throughout the pre-season, not just in the warm-up fixtures against Montpelier, Lyon and Nottingham.
“It’s important to find a balance between getting game-time and looking after everyone because we have a long season ahead of us,” said Cockerill.
“I’m pretty happy with where we are – though all 12 clubs will be saying the same about now.
“Mathew Tait came through another 40 minutes on Friday, we got Steve Mafi a start, Matt Smith came back in after a summer injury, they are all important players for us.
“Now we can plan and prepare for that opening game against Exeter and six massive games during the World Cup period.”
Tigers open the season at home to Exeter Chiefs on Saturday (September 3). Kick-off is at 3pm and tickets are available now.
Kick off the day early by visiting Tigers In The Park, a free family event with activities and attractions for all ages based in Nelson Mandela Park opposite Welford Road from 11am on Saturday.
