London Irish boss Nick Kennedy is relishing this Wednesday’s Greene King IPA Championship Play-off Final first leg trip to Yorkshire Carnegie (kick-off 7.45pm).

The Exiles, who have been buoyed by the presence of Technical Director Brendan Venter this week, secured their place in the final by virtue of a 75-24 aggregate victory over Doncaster Knights.

“The lads are calm and focussed ahead of what will be a tough game under the floodlights in Leeds,” said Kennedy, 34.

“With the game taking place on a Wednesday night, we’ve made a few tweaks here and there and we’ll go for a pitch walk in the afternoon so that we’re out of the hotel for a bit.

“We’ll start our normal prep three hours before kick-off and the only difference is that the game will be under the floodlights.”

Reflecting on his side’s preparation, Kennedy said: “The extra two days of training has certainly helped us as it was a fairly quick turnaround for the semi-final.

“It will be an extremely tough game and I think the tie is going to come down to the wire. The league table doesn’t lie and it’s between two of the best teams in the league.”

Irish fans will be making the 400 mile trip, with Kennedy paying tribute to the ‘magnificent’ support, saying: “The supporters have been superb all season and I’m sure they will travel up in large numbers for the game.

“It really makes a difference having the vocal support that we do and we’re very much looking forward to the game.”

The Play-off Final, 7.45pm Wednesday 24 May, Madejski Stadium - London Irish v Yorkshire Carnegie. Tickets from only £10 for adults and £1 for children from www.lidirect.co.uk or 0118 968 1016.  

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