Northampton Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder believes there is plenty of improvement to come from his men after Sunday's 24-21 win over Exeter.
The Franklin's Gardens outfit were far from convincing against a Chiefs side that continues to impress in their third Aviva Premiership season.
"Our performance was a mixed bag," Mallinder said following their physical four-try showing.
"We were good in the first 20 minutes scoring two good tries but then we relaxed, kicked loosely and going down to 14 men put us under some considerable pressure.
"However we kept our cool in the first 10 minutes of the second half and then our forwards went on to dominate."
Meanwhile, Exeter coach Rob Baxter took plenty of positives from his side's performance on Sunday, with a losing bonus-point claimed by the Chiefs.
"I am pretty pleased. On the two previous occasions here we have been comfortably defeated," he said.
"Last season we lost 33-3 but today we were in the lead at half time and were competitive to the end. It was by far our best performance here and we made it very edgy for Northampton right up until the end.
"However, we kicked away too much possession in the first quarter but after that we looked a good side and kept playing with tempo."
Comments
ArmchairGeneral says...
Certainly would like to see a few more England candidates. A lot of foreign players in the 15. Thought Exeter were the better team and Hartley was lucky to be awarded try
Posted 21:54 10th September 2012
Jediboy says...
He was injured but should be fit in the next couple of weeks - according to the local rag.
Posted 13:13 10th September 2012
heart_of_oak says...
Saints fans, what's the latest on Courtney Lawes ? I see he didn't play in the Exeter match and wasn't a sub either. So I assume he's injured ?
Posted 11:03 10th September 2012