Mean defence proves squad unity, says Gustard (From Watford Observer)

Paul Gustard believes Saracens' mean defence shows the squad's unity and togetherness

1:31pm Monday 29th October 2012 in Sport By Tom Allnutt

Saracens defence and forwards coach Paul Gustard claims his team's strong defence is a sign of unity and togetherness in the squad. 

The Men in Black currently boast the meanest back line in the league, conceding just 87 points in seven matches - more than 50 less than any other team in the top four.

Mark McCall's team have also conceded the fewest number of tries, letting through just five scores so far.

Saracens beat Northampton 16-6 on Saturday and continued their mean streak, depriving Northampton of a single score or a bonus-point defeat.

Speaking after the game Gustard said: "We obviously pride ourselves on a strong defence and I think it’s the easiest way to reflect the unity and togetherness of the squad.

"We've demonstrated over the last three or four seasons that we fight for each other and that when things get tough we've got a friend to our left, a friend to our right and that we're going to fight for each other and get that turnover when we need it.

"I think in defence it’s the easiest the way to manifest team spirit and we showed that again today."

The Sarries coach also singled out Charlie Hodgson as an example of how the team has developed its defensive principles in recent seasons.

"Charlie Hodgson is someone who was vilified at Sale for not being a good defender," Gustard added.

"He has come to Saracens and shown what a good player he is and also what a very good defender he is as well."

Best defences

Points against

Saracens 87

Leicester 113

Bath 134

Northampton 146

Tries against

Saracens 5

Bath 9 

Leicester 10

Gloucester & Harlequins 12