Saracens director of rugby Brendan Venter has paid tribute to his side in the wake of their 26-14 victory over Leeds on Sunday.
Sarries boss pleased with improvements following Leeds win
Saracens director of rugby Brendan Venter has paid tribute to his side in the wake of their 26-14 victory over bottom club Leeds at Headingley on Sunday.
Saracens condemned Leeds to their third straight defeat, thanks to tries either side of half-time from David Strettle and Schalk Brits, plus 16 points from the boot of Derick Hougaard.
Venter, who singled out Brits and Hougaard for special praise, said he was pleased with the improvement of his forwards.
"Leeds are a tough team and play courageously," he said. "But we ran out convincing winners today.
"Derick played very well today and so did Schalk. He's fearless and mixes it up beautifully. He's playing very well for us.
"But Leeds played a lot of rugby and put us on the back foot, so we're pleased to get the win.
"I think the fact that it started raining during the game made it more difficult and that's why I'm so proud of the team.
Progress
"Everything seemed to suit Leeds and we knew it was going to be a difficult day.
"But we were mainly the better side today and that's largely because of the progress we have made in the scrum.
"We won because of our set-piece because it was superb today."
"It's a big game on Sunday." Ventner added, referring to next weekend's home clash with Northampton.
"Northampton are a good side, we all know that. They've won three out of three and we've won two, so it's something nice to look forward to."
Leeds, whose battling displays helped them avoid relegation last season are finding life tough so far this term and Director of rugby Andy Key admitted his side need to improve quickly.
"We realised that it wouldn't get any easier this season," he said.
"Some sides may have taken us a little easier last year but we have earned the respect of the other teams and it will be more difficult.
"However, if you want to be a big boy in the Premiership then you've got to perform for the whole 80 minutes.
"At the moment we are not quite understanding that puzzle."
