REACTION: Kennedy wants more of the same

London Irish Director of Rugby Nick Kennedy wants his side to carry on from where they left off when Doncaster Knights travel to the Madejski Stadium for the Greene King IPA Championship Play-off Semi-final second leg this Saturday (kick-off 1.15pm).

The Exiles’ ruthless attacking edge yielded six tries in the first leg on Sunday, with tries from David Paice (2), Aseli Tikoirotuma (2), Alex Lewington and Sebastian De Chaves securing a 35-3 lead ahead of the return leg.

“It was a job well done but it’s only half-time and we need to maintain our intensity for the second leg,” said Kennedy.

“Our set-piece was dominant as it was when we played against Doncaster in the league two weeks ago, and the boys in the scrum worked extremely hard throughout the afternoon.

“We’re ultimately pleased with where we stand going into the return match, but there are areas we need to work on during this short turnaround.

“If you had given me this lead before the game, I would have bitten your hand off.”

With a swirling wind to contend with at Castle Park, Kennedy was pleased with the way his troops managed the conditions.

“There was a strong wind and it made things difficult for both kickers,” said Kennedy.

“We thought Doncaster were going to run the ball a bit more in the opening stages of the game, but I thought our boys dealt with it well. In the second half we pulled away from Doncaster, which was good to see.”

Irish were backed by a travelling army of supporters, an important ingredient for the triumph according to Kennedy.

“Our supporters were fantastic as they have been throughout the season, and they were in fine voice as they cheered us on.

“They really are an important part of the team and will be needed this weekend at the Madejski too. We’re all looking forward to the game.”

The time is now - the Play-off Semi-final, London Irish v Doncaster Knights on Saturday 6 May. Tickets from just £15 for adults and £2 for children from www.lidirect.co.uk or 0118 968 1016.