Stuart Lancaster paid tribute to Llanelli Scarlets after their eight-try demolition of his Leeds team.
Leeds boss sees his side ship more points in EDF Energy Cup
Stuart Lancaster paid tribute to Llanelli Scarlets after their eight-try demolition of his Leeds team on Friday night.
The Magners League outfit recorded a 59-19 victory to kick-start their EDF Energy Cup after an opening weekend defeat to Bristol.
It was also an important night for the Scarlets following the sudden death of Llanelli legend Ray Gravell during the week.
Lancaster, who has seen his side leak 40 tries in eight games this season, admitted the home side certainly rose to the occasion at Stradey Park.
Special night
"It was obviously a special night for them and I thought they were outstanding," he said.
"They have got great players across the park and they play with great width and great accuracy as well.
"The Scarlets were the best team that we have played against this season. I knew after their defeat at Bristol last week that Phil (Davies) would have them in the right frame of mind."
On his own side, he added: "There were plusses but if you don't get your kicking game right and give them opportunities to counter-attack then it's going to be hard defensively. You can only defend for so long."
Tough
Scarlets director of rugby Phil Davies was pleased that his players kept their focus on the game after a difficult week.
"It's been a tough couple of days and very emotional for obvious reasons," said the former Leeds boss.
"We wanted to play as well as we could in remembrance of Grav. He was a proud Scarlet and I think he would have been proud of the performance.
"On occasions we would have beaten most teams playing the rugby (we did)."
