Leicester Tigers scrum-half Ben White says there is no chance that his side will take their foot off the gas for the visit of Northampton Saints this weekend.
Tigers’ nearest and dearest will be the visitors to Welford Road for the final pool game of this season’s Premiership Rugby Cup this Saturday, October 1 (3.00pm).
And a constant hunger to improve ahead of the domestic season proper – and a chance to get one over the club’s oldest rivals – is more than enough motivation for Geordan Murphy’s men.
“We’ve worked hard all pre-season, from start to now, and we’re not going to take our foot off the gas,” White explained. “We’ve got two wins already, but we’re driving for more, and that starts this weekend.”
“We’re not happy in being second best.”
Ben White
After backing up a bonus-point victory over Exeter Chiefs with an away win at Bath last time out, another four points on Derby Day could take White and his team-mates through to the Cup semi-finals.
But, after setting out to use this opening block of games as crucial Premiership preparation, the scrum-half asserts that Tigers will not be distracted by the chance of knockout rugby.
“We’re going into every game wanting to win, and we’re going into every game looking to improve on our last performance,” added the 21-year-old.
“We’re driving towards that first Premiership game.
“I thought the team played really well [against Bath], and most players had a great game, [especially] up front; Greg Bateman, Tommy Reffell, Calum Green … the list is endless, and that’s exactly what we need.
“Everyone playing at the top of their game – that’s how you get results.”
And climbing onto the team bus for the trip to Worcester in Round 1 of the Gallagher Premiership with three wins on the bounce would be huge, according to White.
“We’ve implemented a lot [of ideas] throughout the pre-season, and into the start of the season,” the Tigers Academy graduate said. “The coaches have put forward a great plan for us all.
“All the players have bought into that and understand what it takes to get the results, and it’s showing.
“We’re not happy in being second best, and you never should be. At this club, we want to win.
“We’ve just got to keep that momentum going.”
Secure your place at Welford Road for Tigers’ Derby Day clash with Northampton Saints on 0116 319 8888 (option 2) or online using the buttons below.
