Kiss: ‘We really deserved that’

Les Kiss was full of praise for London Irish following Saturday’s Round 6 victory against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park.

Irish produced a classy display against Rob Baxter’s side, to run out 33-19 winners - and with it, clinch their first victory of the season.

“I think we really deserved that,” said Kiss.

“Some people might be surprised, but we’re not.

“It’s a big win, of course it is - any time you win at Exeter it’s a big win, so let’s not underplay that.

“But we’ve been close on a few occasions this season, so we knew it was coming.”

First half tries from Agustin Creevy and Curtis Rona set the tone, as the sides went in level at the break, before Irish ran in three more scores in the second period, courtesy of Benhard van Rensburg, Ben Loader and Ollie Hassell-Collins. Four Paddy Jackson conversions sealed an incredible win for the visitors.

“I’m immensely proud of each and every one of the players,” said Kiss at the full-time whistle.

“The coaches too, they’ve really worked hard and stayed strong despite not getting the return we’d have all liked from our opening games.

“This win is just rewards for that.”

He added: “It was a really solid performance from us.

“We made the most of the big moments, we backed ourselves with the ball in hand, as much as we did without the ball in hand.

“Defensively we were very solid too.

“We know it’s a big ask to come here and beat Exeter, but we’ve been playing well and we played well again here.

“The boys got what they deserved.”

Next up for Irish is a home fixture at the Brentford Community Stadium against another top side, in the shape of Bristol Bears on Saturday.

“It doesn’t get any easier does it!” quipped Kiss.

“Look, this is a tough league - we’ll need to get back to it on Monday and prepare for Bristol.

“The boys will enjoy this one, but the group we’ve got will want to go again and produce another good performance next weekend.”