Courtney Lawes believes his improved stamina was the reason for his super show for Saints on Friday night.
The imposing lock put in an imperious display to inspire his side to an 18-12 Heineken Cup victory against Castres at Franklin’s Gardens.
Lawes was like a bull in a china shop early on as he smashed all before him and left a lasting impact on some of the French club’s players.
He continued to impress throughout and deservedly picked up the man of the match award after the game.
And the England star feels his ever-increasing fitness levels are coming to the fore as he looks to get back to his best following last year’s injury torment.
“i enjoyed the whole game on Friday,” said Lawes.
“It was difficult to get in in some parts but the main thing is that my fitness was really good.
“I didn’t feel really tired at any point, which means you can push on and look for more work and that’s a great thing.”
Lawes’ immense physicality was key for Saints as they strived to compete with a heavy Castres pack.
But the second row star was quick to pay tribute to some of the smaller members of the Northampton side.
“They were big boys and when they’re all the same size as Samu (Manoa) it’s quite hard to tackle them but we did well as a team,” he said.
“Stephen Myler put in some great hits against some very large men and it’s brilliant because it shows we’re growing as a team and we’re putting our bodies on the line for each other.”
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