Champions Cup: Leicester Tigers boss Steve Borthwick praises his team’s character after narrow win against Clermont

Leicester Tigers director of rugby Steve Borthwick praised his side’s character after they claimed a narrow 23-16 win over Clermont in the Champions Cup on Saturday.

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The Premiership champions scored two tries through Jasper Wiese and Julian Montoya, along with 13 points from the boot of Charlie Atkinson, to down the French side.

Positive period

Borthwick was pleased with how his side played and delighted with the last two weeks. The coach is also looking forward to having some players return from injury as the side turns its attention back to the Premiership.

“In most parts we played with good intensity but we didn’t take a couple of chances,” Borthwick said.

“We allowed the game to slow down and become an arm-wrestle, which is not what we wanted, but you have to hand it to our team as they just keep fighting.

“It’s a productive two-week period as we will take two from two and we have a few players coming back now which will add to our strength.

“I’ll enjoy this win today as it’s a special club here, and I feel privileged to be part of it over the last two and a half years.”

Massive milestone

Front-row Dan Cole made his 300th appearance for the club in a remarkable achievement, becoming the 36th player to reach the number and the first in a decade.

Borthwick only had praise for the veteran and underlined what he has brought to the club throughout his career.

“He epitomises everything that Leicester Tigers are about. He is humble and understated, consistent in his performance every week and a role-model for any youngster,” he said.

“He’s tremendous and deserves every accolade he gets.

“He’s played a lot of years but his willingness to embrace new routines and play in a different way is remarkable.”

The former second-row was also delighted with Atkinson’s perfect boot and praised his good performance.

“Charlie’s already a good player but he has enormous growth in him,” he added.

“He’s incredibly diligent and keen to learn, and his goal-kicking has improved since working with Kevin Sinfield as he hasn’t missed a kick in the last two games.”