Diccon Edwards praises Leeds Carnegie

Leeds Carnegie boss Diccon Edwards has praised his players for overcoming Championship leaders Newcastle Falcons on Monday.

Leeds, who were relegated from the Aviva Premiership in 2011, will take a 24-19 lead into the second leg of their RFU Championship semi-final.

Edwards told the club's official website: "I am very proud of the team and the way they performed. The crowd were fantastic for us, they really lifted the team.

"We have got a tremendous, loyal supporter base and they have had a tough year this season for a number of reasons but they have stuck by the players and this is a great reward for them.

"We are only at half time in the tie but we are in a good situation."

The second leg will take place on May 12.