Kennedy pleased with Exiles’ pre-season prep

London Irish director of rugby Nick Kennedy was pleased with his team’s exciting performance against Harlequins on Saturday.

Harlequins emerged victorious from the Cunningham Duncombe Series with a 31-29 win through two late Dave Ward tries.

Despite the loss, the Exiles played well against a Quins team packed with numerous England internationals.

“It was a good pre-season hit-out for our boys and I’m pleased with what I saw,” Kennedy told the Premiership;s official website.

“There were errors but I was encouraged with the performance and the way we stuck in there. It’s brilliant that we got that match fitness in the bank and we’ve got lots we can work on.”

Irish introduced seven new signings in this game for their pre-season opener,  including two-time European Rugby Champions Cup winner Petrus Du Plessis.

Kennedy, a European Champion with Toulon in 2013, said: “The Saracens coaches said Petrus was their best scrummager and that’s a pretty impressive recommendation for us coming from a team like that.

“He’s been excellent since he arrived and he has a good rugby brain.”

Over 2,000 fans arrived to watch their team play in two friendlies.  Kennedy was grateful for this support , saying: “Our supporters were fantastic throughout last season, travelling the length and breadth of the country to watch us play and this season will be no different.

“There is a real excitement among our supporters ahead of the Aviva Premiership and it’s great to see. A big thank you must go to them for their fantastic support in our opening pre-season game.”

London Irish will next face Ealing Trailfinders at Hazelwood on Friday 18 August.