Tigers scored seven tries as they began the defence of their Premiership Rugby ‘A’ League title with a bonus point victory at a rain-soaked Welford Road.
New signing Steve Mafi scored a try in each half, including a break from close to halfway that saw him outpace the Northampton defence. There was also a brace for fellow flanker Jethro Rawling and scores for centre Billy Twelvetrees, wing Lee Robinson and a penalty try.
Burke praised his squad, who came back from 20-5 down midway through the first half to level 26-26 going in at half-time before racing away during the second period.
“From one to 23, everyone played their part,” he said. “Steve Mafi I thought had a fantastic game, Jonny Harris was propping against Euan Murray and he was excellent.
“When you have guys like that who put in performances like that, it spurs everyone else. It was really pleasing.”
Tigers Development XV return to 'A' League action when they travel to Newcastle next Monday.
