Cockerill fighting like a Tiger

Leicester coach Richard Cockerill was far from satisfied after seeing his side snatch a 41-32 victory away to London Irish on Sunday, as the Tigers moved into third place in the English Premiership.

The Exiles were on course for only their seventh win in 18 league matches this season when they led 32-31 with two minutes left.

But a penalty from Toby Flood and a try by fellow England international Tom Croft, off the last play of the game, saw the Tigers claw their way to a win.

“We played some good stuff, but [also] some horrendous stuff,” Cockerill said.

“We soaked up early pressure and then I thought we were going to take control but we were too inaccurate against a side who have the pace and power to punish you,” the former England hooker added.

Defeat was particularly tough for London Irish’s impressive 21-year-old full-back Tom Homer, who scored a try and five penalties on his way to a match haul of 24 points.

“Homer is a special kid and it was a special performance,” said London Irish Director of Rugby Brian Smith.

“As a neutral the game was an outstanding spectacle,” the former Australia and Ireland international added.

“After 78 minutes we had our noses in front and I thought it was going to be a Cinderella moment for us.”