By Rugby World editor, Paul Morgan

In a battle of the sides seriously affected by international call-ups Leicester’s strength in depth just held sway so they could win the East Midlands derby.

And with the news coming out of the club that Lote Tuqiri will be joining Leicester this week they look a potent force this season.

It was cruel, cruel, cruel on Northampton to see them leave Welford Road without even a bonus point, but they only have themselves to blame as they self-destructed. Leicester’s Lucas Amorosino swooped to run 80 metres when Stephen Myler threw a hopeful pass to no one and late in the game Anthony Allen intercepted a looping Barry Everitt pass to do the same, this time from 30 metres.
Northampton were missing three tightheads through either injury or disciplinary reasons and it showed as the Tigers props Marcos Ayerza and Martin Castrogiovanni ran riot to put their team on the front foot.
Those who impressed me were:

Martin Castrogiovanni – My man of the match and a great performance from the Argentinean tighthead, who ran the show for Leicester.

Calum Green – Came in on the day of the game when Richard Blaze dropped out. Clearly one for the future and needs a little more bulk to really make an impression, but showed some great touches and a never say die attitude that is Tigers through and through.

Lucas Amorosino – He knows he needs to work on his defence, but after being thrust into the Tigers team to solve their injury crisis has shown what a great runner he is.

Chris Ashton – Starting to prove the promise he had shown in National One and prove those who say he is nothing but a finisher, wrong. 

But what do you think? Were you there or watching on tv. Who was your man of the match