McCall: Saracens were 'loose' despite bonus-point win (From Times Series)

Saracens boss Mark McCall admits his side were not at their best despite beating London Welsh

5:13pm Sunday 3rd March 2013 in Sport

Director of rugby Mark McCall admits Saracens were "loose" against London Welsh as the Men in Black recorded a 35-14 bonus-point win to go top of the Aviva Premiership.

Second half tries from Joel Tomkins, Will Fraser, David Strettle and a penalty-score in the first period ensured victory but the Men in Black were far from their best.

"London Welsh compete for absolutely everything and if you're not on your game you get a game like we had today because we weren't as good as we can be today, especially in the first half," McCall said.

"Credit them but we were loose and we didn't do the things we talked about doing and all of a sudden you're in a game, you're in a contest."

Welsh felt aggrieved after a Gavin Henson try was mysteriously ruled out by TMO before Strettle's score was not referred despite Henson appearing to be impeded in the build-up.

McCall said: "When their try was disallowed that could have been a seven-point game so we're just grateful that we've come away with the five points."

The win means Saracens are top and four points ahead of Harlequins before the two sides meet in three week's time.

"It's a good position to be in but we've got Quins here next in three week's time so that will be a huge game, a game we're really looking forward to," McCall said.

"It's always in this part of the seasion about positioning yourself.

"I think having lost so heavily to London Irish and played so poorly, to respond with three bonus-points wins is a heck of an effort from the whole squad and we're chuffed to have got those 15 points."