Tigers pack inspire crucial win

Leicester Tigers have defeated Saracens 19-10 in front of more than 22,000 fans at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.

A powerful performance by Tigers’ forward pack sealed the crucial victory for Dan McKellar’s side as they now look to the Investec Champions Cup.

Tigers drew first blood through Dan Kelly, the centre poaching a pass from Owen Farrell to sprint away and score under the Europcar stand.

Saracens then took the lead, a brilliant try finished off by Tom Parton.

Farrell converted the extras and then added a penalty to make it 10-5.

Tigers were playing well however, and continued to create opportunities. Eventually the pressure told and Matt Rogerson was as able to burrow his way over the line for the second week running.

Leicester and Kelly looked like they’d scored a second, but the TMO judged Elliot Daly held the ball up, and it stayed 12-10 as the teams trotted to the changing rooms.

Tigers knew they had to match their first half effort if not beat it, but the home side found themselves under immediate pressure as Saracens went on the attack after less than a minute.

Leicester held them out however, and that seemed to turn the momentum, as Tigers went hunting.

The score would take them 25 minutes to find, but eventually, it would come, Tigers dominance was finally rewarded with Harry Simmons diving over in the corner.

Pollard was as imperious as ever and nailed the touchline conversion to push the advantage beyond seven points.

Both sides had their chances to find a bonus point, but it was Tigers day and the home side held firm to win 19-10.