Lloyd Williams insists that his side's performance was the most important aspect of Friday's victory over Aviva Premiership champions, Exeter Chiefs.
A brace of tries by the in-form Aled Summerhill, and a combined 11 points from the boots of Steven Shingler and Jarrod Evans, ensured a 21-20 victory in Cardiff Blues’ final pre-season clash at Cardiff Arms Park.
Scrum-half Williams was delighted with the win, but insists that the Blues must carry momentum into next week’s Guinness PRO14 opener against Edinburgh.
“The priority in this game, first and foremost, was to get the performance right,” said Williams.
“Of course, coming away with the win is important, but that performance was the most important aspect at this stage of the season and the defensive effort was certainly a highlight, and in the end a big reason why we won.
“Everyone knew going into this one that it was going to be tough challenge for us, as they are an exceptional side.
“Fair play, the whole squad stood up with their performances and had a big impact on the victory.
“There were times when Exeter were camped on our try line, but the defence worked hard throughout, and that final play of defence was fantastic.
Williams continued: “We want to start well. Today’s victory and performance has given us the confidence going into next week’s game against Edinburgh but it’s important that we go back into training on Monday, continue to work hard as that was the reason we performed tonight.
“Next week is a huge home game, but we must start well and perform as a squad.
“If we perform well, concentrate on those small details and continue to work hard the result will take care of itself.
“It’s important that we start with a win. We want to finish higher in the league this season but it’s important that we put the work we’ve done on the training ground during pre-season into practice on a matchday.”
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