Northampton Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder has admitted that his team was forced to work hard for their win over Harlequins.

The Saints strengthened their grip at the top of the Aviva Premiership table on Friday night with a 17-13 victory at Franklin's Gardens.

Mallinder believes that a robust defensive performance played a big part in Northampton's triumph following a tough clash against a struggling Quins side.

"Quins made it hard for us. They played well," he told BBC Sport. "They did a good job on our lineout, so we didn't get too much tempo or build too many phases in our game. Our mauls got us some good tries and we put in a very good defensive display.

"We have a good lead - you would definitely take that at the beginning of the season, but we don't get anything for being in this position. That will quickly be forgotten if we lose a few games and don't get a home semi-final."

Northampton are back in action next Saturday when they travel to Gloucester Rugby in the league.