Fearn’s boys bid to make defence case
NORTHUMBRIA University look to strengthen fortress Kingston Park tonight and add resilient defence to their free-flowing attack.
Darren Fearn’s side have plundered more than 100 points in two games after storming out of the blocks.
However, Northumbria have conceded far too many soft tries - a habit which could prove costly against an in-form Loughborough.
Fearn said: “Coming away from Exeter last week I think there was a sense we had achieved something.
“We would rather have had the win but there are definitely positives we can take into the Loughborough game.
“In terms of picking the boys up we have talked about what we did well and what we need to work on.
“We have a good bunch of lads all focused on the future and who are raring to bounce back.”
He added: “When you put 50 points on Exeter there was a chance the lads could get carried away but they have stayed focused.
“We addressed our defence on Monday and will do so again leading up to the game. For me, it is just fine details.
“The effort is there but a lot of the backline from last year are playing in a lot of different positions.
“We need to keep fine-tuning to make sure we are all on the same page.”
Fearn was clear his side must be prepared for whatever Loughborough throw at them tonight if they are to retain their 100% home record.
He said: “We have been looking at the Loughborough team and we think it will be the side which has been playing National One rugby this season.
“They have picked up a few results and they will be a good test for the boys to see where we are at.
“It will be a tough game but if we fire on all cylinders we can come away with a good performance.
“We have a good set of players who have a great attitude and who all want to improve, so hopefully we will get a better result on Friday night.” Kick-off at Kingston Park is at 7.00.