Brett Deacon praised the game management of his young Leicester Tigers side following the come-from-behind 38-17 win over Wasps in Round 2 of the Premiership Rugby Cup.

The young Tigers group, averaging 21 in age across the matchday squad and including several players making their first appearance at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, trailed at half time before rallying to score 24 unanswered points in the second to secure victory.

Speaking after the match, Deacon said: “I was really proud of the effort, really proud of the defence but more than anything, I was proud of the way we managed the second-half.”

"That took great maturity, especially for such a young side who have played very little rugby at this level and very little rugby together.

“Credit to Wasps, they were the much better side the in the first-half.

“The lads took on board everything we discussed at half-time, did what was needed to do and earned the win really well.”

The matchday squad included just three new faces from the narrow Round 1 away defeat to Sale Sharks, which Deacon said was pleasing to offer the group a chance to improve upon the opening game together.

“It was pleasing to be able to put pretty much the same squad out tonight as we did in Round 1, giving the group a chance to make improvements on that first round performance together,” he Deacon.

“The players showed tonight how much representing this club means to them, they kept fighting for one another and it was really pleasing to see.”

The match offered more than an opportunity for the players according to Deacon, who said it was as much a chance for him to learn and grow in a more senior role in the coaches box.

“It really excites me, this opportunity to be in a lead position for the club in these games,” Deacon said.

“I spoke about it pre-game to the players; this is more than an opportunity for them, there are a lot of us in new positions in this competition and we’re learning, we are experiencing the step up together.

“It is a huge honour and privilege for me, as well as being a massive learning experience.”