Director of rugby Jim Mallinder has warned of the dangers of taking tomorrow's game against Launceston for granted.
The Cornish All Blacks visit Franklin’s Gardens needing a win to survive in National League One, and Mallinder says that if the team have their concentration elsewhere then an upset could be on the cards.
“There is going to be a party atmosphere in the crowd but as a team we are taking this match very seriously,” he said. “We are one game away from a perfect season and this is a record that we are very proud of and want to protect.
“When we get the job done the party can start. But there is another tough 80 minutes of action first. Launceston have some good backs and in Matt Jess they have one of the most potent wingers in the league. If our midfield defence is as poor as it was last week then we could be in trouble. We certainly respect the threat Launceston poses.
“We weren’t happy with the way that Newbury scored their tries and have worked hard on that aspect of our game this week. The players have responded and want to finish the season on a high.”
Mallinder has named an unchanged squad from that which travelled to Monks Lane last weekend. He also urged Saints fans to come and support the Wanderers in the second leg of the Guinness ‘A’ League against Wasps on Monday night.
“It is going to be a tough night and the Wanderers will appreciate all of the support in the stands,” he said. “Whatever the result the games against Wasps are very useful. They show what levels of intensity and physicality we will need in the Premiership next season and how important our pre-season will be.”
Tomorrow’s referee is Nick Williams.
You can watch interviews with Jim Mallinder and James Downey on TVNorthants. Just follow this link!
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS SQUAD TO PLAY LAUNCESTON
National League One
Franklin’s Gardens; Saturday, April 26th, 2008; kick-off 3pm
Backs:
Joe Ansbro, Chris Ashton, John Brake, Paul Diggin, James Downey, Will Harries, Stephen Myler, Bruce Reihana, Mark Robinson, Carlos Spencer, Neil Starling.
Forwards:
Mark Easter, Darren Fox, Joe Gray, Dylan Hartley, Mark Hopley, Ben Lewitt, Matt Lord, Euan Murray, Alex Rae, Paul Shields, Tom Smith, Soane Tonga’uiha, Paul Tupai.
