Leeds Carnegie produced a much improved performance against Bath at Headingley Carnegie despite going down 34-15 which has encouraged Director of Rugby Stuart Lancaster.
When these two sides met before Christmas, Bath taught Leeds a rugby lesson but for large portions of this game, Leeds came up with all the answers on defence to Bath's impressive attack.
Lancaster was pleased with his sides effort after a below par performance at Sale last week but he knows they must continue to improve and most importantly win if they are to put pressure on Worcester. Speaking after the game he said, "I think we have taken huge steps forward since our last game against them at the Rec. Unfortunately, we lacked a bit of technical execution at times. Bath challenge all defences with the way they play but I thought we did well. We have to got to keep working hard and retain our self belief. We have got a tough run of games coming up, including a trip to Leicester next, but I thought our effort and commitment was excellent.
"For Bath, Olly Barkley was exceptional. His kicking game was exemplary but Bath have quality across the board in their side. Apo Satala took his opportunity well for us but he appears to have picked up a medial knee injury, which was why he came off. Hopefully Tom Biggs will be back for our next game at Leicester next Saturday. He has a hip injury which is pretty painful at the moment but we are confident about him for next week," added Lancaster.