London Irish director of rugby Nick Kennedy was pleased with his side’s ‘improved’ display against Stade Français as the focus now turns to this Friday’s Aviva Premiership trip to Worcester Warriors (kick-off 7.45pm). 

Kennedy’s charges were edged out 26-20 by Stade, a Tony Ensor try denying the Exiles victory with the last play of the contest.

“To lose the game in the manner that we did is obviously very disappointing, but if we look at the performance and the effort that we demonstrated, we applied ourselves well,” said Kennedy.

“I was looking for a reaction from last week’s defeat at Edinburgh and I got that, which was encouraging. I don’t normally like to single out players, but I thought Sebastian De Chaves really stood up as captain and he led from the front.

“I thought Gordon Reid also played well and carried the ball well, which was pleasing to see.”

With players putting themselves in contention for the Worcester game and with a big training week ahead, Kennedy says there are places up for grabs.

“There are no guaranteed starters and there is real competition for places at the moment,” said Kennedy.

“We’re only just approaching the midway point in the season and there are lots of points still to be won. The players know what we want to see from them on Friday night, and I’ve got no doubt that they’re going to deliver against Worcester.”

London Irish welcome Newcastle Falcons to the Madejski Stadium in the Aviva Premiership on Saturday 30 December (kick-off 3pm). Tickets start from £3 for under 13s and £23 for adults. Tickets are available from www.lidirect.co.uk or by calling 0118 968 1016 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to noon).

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