Irish feel force of Van Straaten's boot

Leeds director of rugby Phil Davies hailed Braam van Straaten's 'world-class' kicking after London Irish were soundly beaten at Headingley.

Van Straaten, who was injured early on in last week's victory over champions Leicester, returned to score a club-record 31 points with nine penalties and two conversions as the Tykes eased home. Davies said: 'You have to give credit to the whole team for getting us into positions and putting the pressure on so London Irish infringed - and Braam obliged and kicked everything that was offered to him. 'He showed his worth for us with an immaculate display.' Former Springbok Van Straaten claimed the match was one of his best and put his success down to dedication in training.

He said: 'I've been working on my angles to get a better strike on the ball and it came right. I've been striking it sweetly. I don't feel pressure when I'm kicking, it's my job and I've done it all my life. 'I'm critical of myself - like Jonny Wilkinson I like to get everything over.' London Irish director of rugby Conor O'Shea blamed his side's poor discipline for allowing Van Straaten to shine. He said: 'We gave away penalties, they kicked the goals and 19-16 became 22, 25, 28 and then a try.'