Powell predicts Malins reaction

SARACENS’ coach Adam Powell has backed flyhalf Max Malins to come back stronger after the former England U20 star struggled against Sale.

Malins’ involvement was crucial in their second try but the pivot was errant with his kicking out of hand, which often relieved the pressure on the hosts.

Powell said: “Max is an unbelievably talented player, he’s one of the top young prospects in the country. Everyone has the odd game that doesn’t quite go to plan but I have no doubt whatsoever that he will be back playing excellently straight away.”

Meanwhile, Sharks’ boss for the evening, Neil Briggs, praised the performance of young wing Arron Reed, who impressed in both defence and attack.

“Reedy was really good,” Briggs said. “He looked a real threat with the ball and defensively he was good. He’s worked really, really hard.

“I thought he was away at one stage but Marcelo Bosch just got a finger on him.”