Richards: We made hard work of it against Zebre
Cameron Nordli-Kelemeti’s 80th minute try secured a home game against Glasgow Warriors in the round of 16, with Richards saying: “I think we were probably a little bit too complacent on the day, and took our foot off the gas beforehand.
“People might say Zebre haven’t won a game all season, but they’re playing against good sides – the likes of Leinster, Edinburgh and those boys. They’re all quality sides, and they’ve come on leaps and bounds in that company.
“We weren’t quick enough into the breakdown, weren’t physical and hard enough in the contact area and our kicking game lacked a bit of imagination. Zebre came out firing, and we probably didn’t pay them enough respect if we’re totally honest about it.
“Having said that, when you’re down and needing scores late on to win, we came back and did it, which is credit to the boys.”
Zebre fly-half Antonio Rizzi kicked five penalties in a man-of-the-match performance, with Richards conceding his side had not read referee Ludovic Cayre.
“I said before the game that adapting to a French referee was the most important thing tonight, and we couldn’t quite do it,” said the Falcons boss.
“Some of the penalties we gave away were a bit bizarre, but to some extent you’ve got to expect that in terms of interpretations of the law. We didn’t quite adapt to the way he was seeing things, and it cost us.
“But it was all about getting a home draw, and bringing Glasgow here will hopefully be a great occasion. We played them in pre-season, they’re a good side and I’m sure they’ll bring their support down over the border.
“It’s a big game between two good teams, and when you’re getting to the business end of European competitions there’s obviously plenty riding on it.”
Tickets for the Glasgow game are on sale now, priced £10 for adults and £5 for juniors (16 and under).
Season ticket holders and season parking pass holders are advised this game is not covered by their 2021-22 package.
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[1]: https://www.eticketing.co.uk/newcastle-falcons/EDP/Event/Index/1727
