Will Goodrick-Clarke believes London Irish are edging ever closer to securing a maiden win of the season, after yet another close-fought encounter against table-topping Leicester Tigers on Saturday.

Declan Kidney’s side went down 21-16 at the Brentford Community Stadium, with two late penalties in the final stages handing the visitors a narrow victory.

“There was plenty to be positive about with the performance,” said Goodrick-Clarke.

“To go in ahead at half-time was pleasing, we haven’t done that in our previous few games.

“I thought there was a marked improvement across the whole 80 minutes, but unfortunately we weren’t able to get over the line again, so we’re obviously disappointed.

“We threw up a few errors, allowing them into our 22. They maul well and ultimately that’s what got them into positions to win the game.

“We let them have it at the end, so there’s still lots to build on for this weekend.”

He added: “I felt we restricted them really well - our system defence was very good.

“They didn’t look dangerous at all really in open play, because we defended well.

“But those few errors just allowed them to make crucial inroads at crucial times and that’s what cost us in the end.”

Next up for Irish is another home fixture at the BCS this coming weekend, when Gloucester Rugby are the visitors.

Despite the Exiles’ recent run of form, the front-row forward is in buoyant mood ahead of Sunday’s Round 5 clash.

“It was great to be backed by another good crowd this weekend,” he said.

“It’s a great ground, the atmosphere is always incredible.

“We’re excited about being back at the BCS this weekend.

“We’re all craving that first win of the season - and we want to make it happen this coming weekend.

“We’ll train hard this week, prepare as we always do, and be ready for another tough battle against Gloucester.”

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