mens
Gallagher-Prime Minister
Geoff Parling praised Leicester’s bravery after seeing them move to the top of the PREM table with a 22-16 bonus point win over Bristol at Ashton Gate in a game full of errors.
The Tigers took advantage of the hosts having two men in the penalty box and scored 10 points in their absence, which proved the difference in the end.
Freddie Steward, Adam Radwin, Ollie Hassell-Collins and Jamie Blamire got tries for Leicester, with Billy Searle adding the conversion.
Louis Rees-Zammit scored Bristol’s only try and James Williams added three penalties and a conversion to secure the lost bonus point.
“It was a tough win against a good team because it’s always hard to come by,” Leicester said director of rugby Parling.
“We only conceded one try last week and one tonight because our defense continues to improve because we have a different system because it’s more aggressive.
“I thought our kicking was impressive with Billy Searle outstanding, although his misses from the game were frustrating.”
Leicester captain Ollie Chessum, who was man of the match, added: “We keep finding ways to make it difficult for ourselves.
“We should have finished the game much earlier and I was very frustrated and annoyed in the last 10 minutes, and I have to apologize to the boys because I always have my heart on my sleeve.
“The effort of this group constantly amazes me as they continue to improve week by week. I love playing for this club because there is no better club.”
Bristol boss Pat Lam lamented the loss of two players to the sin bin.
He said: “We conceded two tries in the sin-bin period and that ended up being quite crucial.
“Zam (Louis Rees Zammit) scored a great try and our defense was incredible but we couldn’t create any pressure throughout the game.
“We lost too many lines, which prevented us from getting any attacking platforms, so we did well to stay until the end to get the bonus point.”
Bristol prop and former Tigers captain Ellis Genge said: “I’m upset about the loss and it’s hard to take, especially the way we lost.
“It was tough with two yellows but we could fight it out but they stuck to their guns and got the better of us which is disappointing.”
