Homewrecker Tuilagi is all smiles on return to Tigers
MANU TUILAGI “exorcised a demon” by scoring a try and helping Sale beat his old club Leicester.
That was the verdict of Sharks boss Steve Diamond after his high- fliers took maximum points from a 40- 31 win at Welford Road.
“He wanted to play to exorcise a demon,” Diamond said. “And I think he did.”
England centre Tuilagi had turned down the chance to sit out the game, having recently left Tigers rather than accept a pay cut.
After his new team reclaimed second spot with four rounds to go, he admitted: “I loved it.
“It has been my home for so many years, so I was excited to come back. I’ve still got the Leicester accent – and I don’t think that will ever change.”
Harlequins became the first club in England to be allowed to play in front of fans, but the day ended in disappointment for the 3,500 allowed in to the Stoop as Bath cruised to a 41- 27 win.
“Mixed emotions,” admitted Quins CEO Laurie Dalrymple.
“I’m fully aware our game and the result weren’t good enough but the delivery of our pilot event was exceptional. It feels like an important milestone and a positive step forward for other live events, sports and this club getting back in the right direction.”
Gloucester head coach George Skivington was relieved to come away with five valuable points in a hard- fought 36- 23 victory over a battling London Irish at Kingsholm. Skivington said: “It was really scrappy in parts and sometimes those sorts of games go against you, so I’m very happy.”