Leicester interim head coach Geordan Murphy hailed his players for their support after they beat Newcastle 49-33 at Welford Road on Saturday.
Following Matt O’Connor’s departure, Murphy took over the reins at the Premiership outfit with his first game seeing him face the Falcons.
It resulted in an impressive triumph as a fast start from the Tigers – that gave them lead 40-19 at the break – proved crucial in their win.
“It was a win so I’m pleased with that. We were sloppy at times, but we had a really good start and that put us in control. Overall, I’m pleased but we have plenty to work on,” he told BBC Sport after the home victory.
“The senior players had big games, but we weren’t the finished article today.
“It’s been a tough week, and it’s bound to be after losing the head coach with an interim coming in tweaking a few things, but the players stood up and led really well.
“The support they’ve given me in a tough week has been world class.”
Monday: Sack head coach ??
Saturday: Score FIVE first-half tries ??
So @LeicesterTigers had their bonus point wrapped up after 23 minutes today ?? pic.twitter.com/kbVgUnn9MZ
— Rugby on BT Sport (@btsportrugby) September 8, 2018