Young backs Haskell as Wasps beat champions Northampton
WASPS boss Dai Young insists his decision to appoint James Haskell skipper has been vindicated after the England hopeful produced a stoic performance as his side beat reigning champions Northampton Saints at Adams Park yesterday.
Quick-fire second-half touchdowns from Ashley Johnson and Tom Varndell laid the platform for a 20-16 Wasps success despite Northampton breaching the home side’s defence late on through Ben Foden.
Despite losing out to Saracens in agonising fashion during the London Double Header in their season curtain-raiser, Young believes two shows of strength have showcased the qualities Wasps possess.
“People were surprised when I picked James captain because outwardly he can be a little bit “show business”, but inside the camp he’s a real role model,” said Young. “He was up against players competing for England spots but he was outstanding in all aspects.”
London Irish survived a late scare to post their first win of the season with a 20-18 win against Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park.
Falcons centre Juan Pablo Socino saw his last-gasp conversion strike the post after Sinoti Sinoti stormed over, following earlier tries from Josh Furno and Scott Wilson.
The Exiles crossed the line twice in the second period through Fergus Mulchrone and Andrew Fenby as centre Shane Geraghty kicked 10 points.
A Charlie Hodgson-inspired Saracens thumped Harlequins 39-0 at the Twickenham Stoop on Friday night while on Saturday London Welsh suffered another heavy defeat, going down 53-26 at Bath.