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Northampton Saints
Gallagher Premiership
Feb 27, 2015 at 7.45pm UK
 
Harlequins
SaintsNorthampton Saints
17-13
Harlequins
Manoa (30'), Wilson (54'), Wood (67')
FT
Yarde (80')

Northampton Saints coach Jim Mallinder pleased by tough win over Harlequins

Jim Mallinder admits that Northampton Saints were made to work hard for their narrow victory at home to Harlequins.

Northampton Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder has admitted that his team was forced to work hard for their win over Harlequins.

The Saints strengthened their grip at the top of the Aviva Premiership table on Friday night with a 17-13 victory at Franklin's Gardens.

Mallinder believes that a robust defensive performance played a big part in Northampton's triumph following a tough clash against a struggling Quins side.

"Quins made it hard for us. They played well," he told BBC Sport. "They did a good job on our lineout, so we didn't get too much tempo or build too many phases in our game. Our mauls got us some good tries and we put in a very good defensive display.

"We have a good lead - you would definitely take that at the beginning of the season, but we don't get anything for being in this position. That will quickly be forgotten if we lose a few games and don't get a home semi-final."

Northampton are back in action next Saturday when they travel to Gloucester Rugby in the league.

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Jim Mallinder, coach and Director of Rugby of Northampton Saints, is interviewed by BT Sport before the Aviva Premiership match between Northampton Saints and Exeter Chiefs at Franklin's Gardens on September 7, 2013
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