London Irish director of rugby Nick Kennedy has switched his focus to the upcoming festive fixtures following Saturday’s 39-15 Aviva Premiership defeat against Gloucester at Kingsholm.
The Exiles now have back to back European Rugby Challenge Cup games against Edinburgh Rugby and Stade Français, before travelling to Worcester Warriors on Friday 22 December in the Aviva Premiership. Irish round off the month of December at home to Newcastle Falcons on Saturday 30 December.
Cutting a frustrated figure in the aftermath of Saturday’s defeat, Exiles’ boss Kennedy was pleased with his side’s endeavour following David Paice’s red card on the stroke of half-time.
“We showed a lot of heart right until the last second and we will never give in no matter what the score line is,” said Kennedy.
“Our maul defence, especially with 14 men was pleasing against a confident Gloucester side who were very much in the ascendancy in front of their home crowd.”
Preparing his charges for the trip to Edinburgh, Kennedy added: “We’re now in Edinburgh mode and we’ll plan for the match accordingly.
Then it’s all about the Worcester game in two weeks’ time and we’ll do everything we can to put in our best performance.”
London Irish welcome Stade Français to the Madejski Stadium on Saturday 16 December in the European Rugby Challenge Cup (kick-off 3pm). Under 13s tickets are £1 throughout the stadium and adult tickets are on sale from £18 from www.lidirect.co.uk or by calling 0118 968 1016.
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