20 Questions: Mathew Tait – Leicester full-back

London Welsh made you work hard for that win, didn’t they?
The objective was achieved as we got the bonus points but we were pretty poor in our execution and turned the ball over too many times.
Sets you up nicely for that play-off push?
That’s what we’re playing for and it’s all in our hands. But we know Wasps will be different kettle of fish.
The Tigers have not missed a Premiership semi-final since 2004, any added pressure?
There’s always pressure on your shoulders when you play for a club like Leicester but we don’t want to be the first group to miss the play-offs in over a decade.
Does the Wasps game next week feel like a Midlands derby yet?
Yes. We’ll be able to stay at home the previous night rather than be in a hotel and we should have a fair bit of fans travelling to Coventry to cheer us on.
Any special requirements to beat Wasps?
They’ve been playing very well at the Ricoh Arena. We’ll have to make sure we’re not as loose because they have some x-factor with Nathan Hughes, Christian Wade and Elliot Daly.
What part did injuries play in the Tigers’ season?
It’s easy to hide behind that excuse. The performances have not been as fluid as we’d have liked and we’ve got to rectify that if we don’t want to miss out.
What about your own season, most consistent ever?
It’s been great to play so many games and be involved week-in week-out. Between the Premiership and Champions Cup, I’ve only missed one game so far so it’s been a very good season on that aspect.
How good does it feel to be injury free?
Touch wood it’ll stay that way. I know how frustrating it can be when you’re injured so I felt for the boys who were stuck on the sidelines.
Have you changed anything in your routine?
There’s probably an element of luck but I’ve seen how Brad Thorn and Seremaia Bai look after their bodies. I’m spending a lot more time stretching and flexibility work which seems to have been a big help to me.
What would be a great way to end your time in the Premiership?
Winning a second Premiership would be the pinnacle. Hopefully, we can make the play-offs and push on from there.
You’re scheduled to go off to Bayonne but they are currently in the relegation zone. Worried?
Yes, but there are seven teams within four points of each other so it could change quickly.
What would happen if they were to go down?
I don’t know right now. I’ll cross that bridge if it comes to it.
It was 11 years yesterday you made your Newcastle debut against London Irish, any memories?
I was still at school studying for my A-Levels. I was meant to train with the first team then was told I might be on the bench and I actually started the game against Paul Sackey.
Is it your best memory in rugby?
It’s in the top five but playing for England Sevens at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Hong Kong was pretty special.
Career took off at Barnard Castle School?
Yes. The standards were really high. We had a great circuit with very strong teams and players to play against.
How do you chill outside rugby?
At the minute I don’t as we just had our second baby four weeks ago. I’m looking after our older son who’s nearly two and he’s a handful. It’s hard work but it’s a great distraction.
What annoys you the most in life?
People who are not polite and “celebrities” like the TOWIE or Made In Chelsea cast.
Three special dinner guests?
Professor Richard Dawkins, Stephen Fry and Karl Pilkington.
Best and worst banter at the Tigers?
Geoff Parling used to be good fun but he got too grumpy. Worst is Julian Salvi.
Best and worst dressed?
I’m probably not far off the worst. Depending what mood I’m in I just put scruffs on. Niall Morris would be the best.