Saturday 6 December 2014 21:48, UK
Forwards coach Dorian West praised Northampton’s ruthless streak after they ran in six tries to beat Treviso 38-15 in the European Champions Cup.
Scores from Samu Manoa, Alex Waller, Ben Foden, Luther Burrell, George Pisi and a penalty try ensured maximum points for the Saints as they joined Racing Metro on 10 points at the top of Pool 5.
West said: "When you come to these places your forwards have got to be ruthless, you have to work hard and take the energy out of their defence.
"We knew it was going to be tough especially early on, they are a good side with some really players so it was never going to be easy.
"Racing had come here and left without a bonus point so we knew we would have to be at our best if we were going to get maximum points.
"We worked really hard in the first half, especially in the forwards, to take the legs out of their pack and that created some space later on in the game.
"That's exactly what we thought would happen and we have got to be pleased with our game plan.
“The lads showed a good spirit and a good togetherness.
"Their defensive line was very strong and we struggled to break them down in the first 25 minutes because they were working hard for each other.
"It's never easy, you have to earn your victories but I thought we worked hard and their legs finally went.
"We are pretty pleased with what we have done."
Saints host Treviso at Franklin's Gardens next week and West is looking for more of the same from his side as they chase a place in the knock-out stages.
"It's easier when you play them twice in two weeks," added West.
"We've done our analysis on them and all we need to do now is look at what players they could have to come back into the team.
"We will continue to work hard, there's less to look at in terms of the opposition but won't take our foot off the gas."
