Saints boss Mallinder delighted with ‘bonus’ wins during Six Nations

Mallinder’s claimed their ninth Aviva Premiership victory in succession last weekend, seeing off Worcester 30-14 at Franklin’s Gardens.

They did so without seven internationals, including George North and skipper Dylan Hartley, and a number of injured players.

Saints will again be shorn of a host of talent as they head north to Newcastle Falcons for another Premiership encounter on Sunday.

And Mallinder is targeting another victory, which would be his side’s fifth in a row without their internationals, to keep Saints on track.

“Every win for us is a bonus in this period,” said the director of rugby.

“It’s not easy. Every point you’ve got to work hard for.

“If we can just keep winning then when the internationals come back we’ll be in a very good position.”

Saints were able to call on the services of Lee Dickson last weekend, with the England scrum-half allowed to return to his club to get some game time ahead of Saturday’s game against Ireland.

And Mallinder was pleased with the contribution of the 28-year-old.

“I thought he had a good, solid game,” said the Saints boss.

“It’s very difficult for these players to be away for a couple of weeks and suddenly have to fit back into the club.

“It’s about remembering the calls again and the way you play, but I think Lee had a very tidy 55 minutes and hopefully he’s put some pressure on Stuart (Lancaster) to have a look at him.”