Matt Cornish on ‘topsy-turvy’ win at Franklin’s Gardens

Hooker Matt Cornish was happy to come away with the victory over Northampton Saints on Saturday, but admits it wasn’t all plain sailing.

Irish led 7-26 at half-time, only to find themselves locked at 26-26 with 10 minutes to go. However, the Exiles found their momentum in the final few minutes and finished with a flurry to win 26-36.

“It was a bit of a topsy-turvy match. I think we started well and did what we said we wanted to do when we were preparing for the game all week,” said Cornish.

“Then in the second half, we went away from that slightly.  Our discipline cost us, and Northampton worked their way back into the contest.”

The yellow card proved costly for the visitors, but when they did get back up to a full complement, Cornish was proud of the reaction from his teammates.

“When we got back up to 15 players, I think we showed real heart to break the momentum and get back to our game plan. We managed to score through Benhard and that led us on to win the game.”

Northampton showed their attacking prowess in the second half, but the Exiles’ defensive effort proved enough to get the deserved victory. Cornish was impressed by the hosts’ speed of play.

“Northampton are a quick side,” he explained.

“Our defence managed them well, and that helped us throughout the match. It’s a good win and hopefully we can build on this performance going forwards.”

Doing this interview whilst walking around the Franklin’s Gardens pitch, Cornish let out a big grin when asked about the next fixture - a Friday night clash with Saracens.

“I can’t wait. It’s going to be a great game. We can’t wait to see the supporters under the Friday Night Lights and we are going to go after another win.”

Be at the Brentford Community Stadium under the Friday Night Lights to watch London Irish take on Saracens. Adult tickets are just £10, and children’s tickets are just £5 in all stands! Click here to secure yours.