Mallinder eyes Gardens sellout

Published: Monday, 19. November, 2012 in category Northern Hemishere
Jim Mallinder: Wants Northampton's fans to come out in force this weekend

Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder has urged fans to pack out Franklin's Gardens for this weekend's encounter against London Welsh.

After Saints' 30-20 win over Newport Gwent Dragons , the club are keen to push on in their title challenge with a win over London Welsh on Saturday, which sees Welsh visit Northampton for the first time in five years.

Welsh have proved themselves to be of Aviva Premiership standard, with three wins out of eight leaving them in tenth position.

Mallinder is hoping that the win over the Dragons will kick-start their season, after previously losing their last four. However, he remains wary of Welsh's quality.

"It's a very important game this weekend. London Welsh have done fantastically well this season. They're going to come up and be looking to enjoy the game at Franklin's Gardens," Mallinder told the club's official website.

Due to injuries and international duties Saints may be missing up to thirteen players, with Mallinder highlighting the importance of a healthy attendance at the Gardens.

"What we need is a big crowd to get behind us in what is a massive game," he continued. "We need to win it. We'll have a good week this week and if we play to the best of our ability then we'll win that game next week."