George Pisi admits Saints’ season so far has been ‘gruelling’.
But the Samoa star says his side will scrap to put things right after Saturday’s defeat to Harlequins.
Saints take on Saracens on Sunday on the back of an 18-9 defeat to the Premiership champions at Franklin’s Gardens.
It was the fourth defeat of the league season for Jim Mallinder’s men, who have slipped to fifth in the standings.
They are now taking a short break for Christmas before returning to training ahead of the clash with Sarries in Milton Keynes on Sunday.
And Pisi admits it is nice to recharge the batteries after a tough campaign to date.
“It’s been quite a gruelling year for us and we’re at a halfway point,” said the 26-year-old. “From now on in it’s crucial to come back strong and come back fighting.
“This is the half where we really want to move forward and play well. It’s good to recharge the batteries, spend time with family and come back this weekend firing.”
Saints are now six points adrift at the top of the table, with Quins occupying the spot at the summit.
And while Pisi was impressed with the current holders of the league crown on Saturday, he feels Saints were simply made to pay for their own profligacy.
“They’ve got a lot of experience in their team,” he said. “They’re champions at the moment and they’re one of the teams that are going to be fighting for the league this year.
“It’s quite even at the moment, this competition, and it’s the bounce of a ball. It went their way on Saturday and they were better at taking their opportunities and getting the points on the board.”
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