Dowson: We didn’t convert pressure

Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson was frustrated by his side's wayward discipline and leaky defence.

“We missed a lot of tackles and didn't turn pressure into points,” he said. “That will bury you in this league. There was not enough improvement. There are some signs, but it's not enough.

“We got on the wrong side of the penalty count and had the yellow card. We need to give fewer yellows away and be better when we do.

“We do some really good stuff going forward but when we get in the 22 we are profligate with the ball. It means the scoreboard doesn't change and the pressure is then back on us.”

Gloucester boss George Skivington said the strong display was vital after a lean November. “The boys wanted to make a point and give something back to the supporters and make that right,” he said.

“We were brave in the way we wanted to play. After a disappointing Autumn International Series period we needed that.”