Sarries look at Williams

SARACENS hope to unveil Francois Pienaar's successor later this week, writes Paul Thomson.

Leinster's Matt Williams is understood to be among the frontrunners to take over as coach from the South African.

"We hope we can put the matter to bed this week," said chief executive Peter Deakin.

If the new man does arrive some time this week, at least he will inherit a team which returned to winning Zurich Premiership ways with a 33-11 victory over Bath yesterday.

Saracens' Vicarage Road success lifted them into the top eight and was secured thanks to second-half tries from England scrumhalf Kyran Bracken, flanker Kris Chesney and wing Gerald Arasa.

Centre Kevin Sorrell kicked 15 points, while there was also a drop goal for fly-half and caretaker-coach Tim Horan.

While Saracens eased the pressure on themselves in the congested relegation region, Bath, who gave a woeful performance, are now in trouble.

They are just one point above bottom club Leeds and of their remaining six league matches difficult appointments with Gloucester, London Irish and Northampton lie ahead.

Copyright 2002
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.