Goode full of praise for ‘world class’ Hodgson after Saracens triumph

England full-back Alex Goode described Charlie Hodgson as the best fly-half in the Premiership after watching him orchestrate Saracens’ 30-13 Heineken Cup victory over Racing Metro on Saturday.

Hodgson gave a masterclass in every department at King Baudouin Stadium as he continues to produce some of the finest rugby of his career.

Goode said: “Charlie’s a fantastic player who has been the best 10 in the Premiership for the last 10-15 years. He’s a class player who knows when and when not to play. While he can throw 30-metre passes everywhere, his kicking against Racing was fantastic.

“He’s a world class player and it’s great to have him on board.’’

Harlequins’ Nick Evans may edge out Hodgson as the Premiership’s foremost fly-half, but Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall is still able to savour the influence of his ringmaster.

“Charlie’s playing some great rugby and is playing with freedom,” McCall said.

“He’s one of the best passers of the ball in Europe and is playing outstandingly well at the moment.”

Tries from Chris Wyles, Steve Borthwick and Will Fraser and 15 points from Charlie Hodgson cemented Saracens’ place at the summit of Munster’s Pool One and as the best performing English club in Europe.

Leicester boss Richard Cockerill hailed a virtuoso match-winning display by Toby Flood after the England star revived Tigers’ Heineken Cup campaign,

Flood scored 24 points, including an interception try, as Leicester staged a storming finish to beat Welford Road visitors the Ospreys 39-22 in bonus point fashion.

After last weekend’s defeat in Toulouse, it was just what the Tigers needed to keep themselves in Pool Two contention.

“I think Toby gets a lot of unfair criticism,” Cockerill said. “He’s played 50-odd Tests for England. He is a really good player.”

Meanwhile Sale head coach Bryan Redpath admitted his team lacked the firepower to compete with the top clubs in Europe after Montpellier fly-half Francois Trinh Duc dismantled his side in a stunning second-half burst.

The France international scored his side’s opener on 51 minutes before two clever kicks set up another two tries to send the French side on their way to a 33-18 win in Pool 6.