Brian Smith sets London Irish points target

London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith has set his side a target of 20 points from their remaining home games as they look to avoid relegation.

The Exiles have nine games left, five of which are at home, and Smith says it is their form at the Madejski Stadium that will keep them in the Premiership.

Irish are second from bottom and five points ahead of Sale below them.

"We've got a big job ahead of us this weekend and all eyes are on that," Smith told BBC Radio Berkshire.

Smith's side take on high-flying Saracens on Saturday, but the Australian is bullish about their chances.

"We know we have a massive challenge on our hands because Saracens are a very good team," he said.

"We have prepared very well and we think we have the right tactics and we will back ourselves to win. Our form at home has been very strong and we are locked and loaded and ready to give a very good account of ourselves."

Smith added: "We've got nine matches left and five at home and we want to get a result in all of them.

"We need those 20 points. We think we are a better team then where we are in the table. We've had some tough calls against London Welsh and Harlequins but we are where we are and we need to suck it up and crack on.

"We want to get 20 points from our home games and if we pick anything up away then that is a bonus."