Last Saturday's victory at Worcester was highly satisfying as it backed up the away draw at Newcastle and the dramatic home win against Bath in our two previous Guinness Premiership matches. I was particularly pleased with the resolution shown by the group as a number of injuries occurred during the game and the atmosphere was also intimidating - something we are learning to live with during the season.

This Saturday sees our final league encounter for three weeks and another victory would propel us further up the table, putting our slow start into a distant memory.

That said, we are more than aware of the challenge which London Irish will pose, given the way they have started this season. They will have been disappointed to have been turned over, both against Saracens in day one and in the Heineken Cup at home to Scarlets the other week.

However, in between times, they have played some excellent rugby and are clearly a real running threat.

This Saturday's game is made all the more appetising by the fact that despite finishing runners up in the league last year, it was London Irish who denied us the opportunity of going to Twickenham, with victory against us in the play-offs.

The players are determined to maximise this opportunity to nail a home victory, prior to the focus turning to the Anglo-Welsh Cup next week.

The support you offered the team in the final moments against Bath, and at times against Toulouse, was highly significant and motivating for the team. I am quite sure that those of you who are joining us on Saturday will be intent on making the atmosphere electric against our old rivals from down the road.

See you on Saturday!

Tickets: 0871 527 1315