Mallinder wants table-topping Saints to step things up against Harlequins

Mallinder’s men secured a superb 21-13 success at Bath on Saturday, stretching their lead at the top of the Aviva Premiership to nine points.

They also widened the gap between first and third, with the team occupying that position, Saracens, losing at Sale.

And the Saints boss is now keen to see his team keep their foot on the accelerator with just seven regular-season games to go.

“It’s always nice to hear those teams in third are not winning,” Mallinder said.

“We’re in a good position with a little bit of daylight between second and a bit more between third and fourth so it’s good.

“We were disappointed with our performance against London Irish and we needed to step up. We definitely stepped up.

“It was one of our best performances in the past few weeks without a doubt and it leaves us in a great position.

“But if we slip up against Harlequins on Friday it’s for nothing really.”