Northampton Saints coach Jim Mallinder has heaped praise on his team following their win at rivals Bath in the Aviva Premiership.

The Saints opened up a nine-point lead at the top of the standings on Saturday as they left the Recreation Ground with a 21-13 triumph.

Mallinder believes that his players put in one of their best performances of the season to see off Bath on their own turf.

"We played well in the first half after a poor start. We had tempo and width and scored two good tries, then in the second half our defence won us the game," he told BBC Sport. "It is one of our best performances of the season.

"It is a nice cushion, but if we lose next week against Harlequins then it negates today's good win. We are very pleased. It is a good position to be in."

Northampton continue the defence of their crown on Friday when they welcome Quins to Franklin's Gardens.