Hougaard kicked seven penalties and one drop goal on Sunday

Saracens fly-half Derick Hougaard refused to accept the plaudits despite kicking every point in his side's 24-17 win over Northampton Saints on Sunday.

Hougaard, 27, was more eager to heap praise on the Sarries forwards than his own performance.

He told BBC Three Counties Radio: "Second half they kept the ball for 20 minutes, they were so tired.

"I saw everyone was dead tired but they toughened it out and got penalties for us at crucial times."

Despite a bright start by Saints at Vicarage Road Hougaard's kicking ensured the home side went in ahead 15-12 at half-time, a lead they never relinquished.

606: DEBATE Two players stood out for me. One was obviously Hougaard... The other was Jaques Burger, who I think could force Andy Saull out of the team when he is back to full-fitness emiatss

"We were under the cosh for the first 20 minutes, it just shows how much character this team has," the South African added.

"They kept calm and the way we came back into the game was a massive testament to the team.

"When we turned it around we just kept playing in their half and luckily things went well."

The win moved Saracens up to fourth in the Aviva Premiership.

Their next game pitches them against champions, Leicester Tigers, a club Hougaard helped to the title two years ago.

"It doesn't get any easier does it? From Northampton to Leicester," he said.

"We know how tough it is in the Premiership but it's crucial to enjoy the good times and when we get together on Tuesday we need to switch on and be ready for Sunday."

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