SARACENS' head coach Buck Shelford, scathing after successive defeats against London Irish and London Wasps, was full of praise for his rejuvenated side after they bounced back with a 31-19 win over Northampton on Saturday at Vicarage Road.
"We found out they can play with heart," said the former All Black's captain, who left internationals Thomas Castaignede, Abdel Benazzi, Kyran Bracken and Nicky Little kicking their heels on the bench.
"The skill level let them down a bit again but they played with a lot of spirit and we have got to keep that going.
"They have played within themselves for a couple of weeks but today they played with spirit and guts. They shut down Northampton in the backs and at the breakdown and showed great courage, taking the big hits."
October 1, 2002 10:30
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