IRISH international outhalf David Humphreys praised new London Irish coach Willie Anderson for his efforts in making the Exiles favourites to stay in the Courage League One next season.

Anderson took over from Clive Woodward, after a dismal run of form had seen the Sunbury-based club slump to the foot of the League's top flight.

His subsequent contribution has been richly appreciated by Humphreys, who said after yesterday's defeat by Orrell: "Willie has been absolutely fantastic, and as far as I am concerned we needed him at that particular time.

"Clive was laying the groundwork for our performances. Unfortunately he had other commitments which began to weigh on his mind, but I think we made the sensible choice in appointing Willie."

London Irish can be confident of their place in League One next year, because they are coming off the back of a Harlequins and Leicester victory, as they start the final lap towards survival - a double-leg play-off against Coventry.