Despite trailing to early tries from Arthur Allen and Toby Cousins, the away team gradually took control and having equalised before the break thanks to debutant Jasper Spandler and Zach Clow, second-half scores from Tom Vooght, Oli Rhoads and Jake Murray sealed the deal.
Honey chipped in with 11 points from the boot, taking him past a century for the year, and said the late switch to taking the captain’s armband was not an issue.
‘Happy to lead’
He explained: “Robbie picked up a knock and for me as a No. 10, leadership’s a key role anyway, so I’m happy to do it.
“It’s a very important win. The guys involved last year identified in the week how this is a tough place to come – you’ve got to build your own atmosphere and they’re a good side who play some top stuff, especially at home.
“I thought we rode out their early pressure very well and clawed back control, which allowed us to exert pressure back onto them.”
Victory was a third straight for Rams following a trio of losses which had left them six points adrift of leaders Richmond, but with the former table-toppers going down at Sale, it is Seb Reynolds’ side who are now four clear at the summit.
The success was built on a blend of experience and youth, the back row of Vooght, Ben Atkins and James McRae impressing along with young guns such as Spandler, Rhoads, Murray, Harry Stone and another debutant, Joe Pannese.
‘Unbelievable’ back row
And Fraser continued: “The back row are unbelievable – the work they get through is out of this world and it sets the platform for the backs. As a trio they’re phenomenal and it was another good shift from them.
“Some of the young guys coming through are very talented! They’re brilliant and it was great to see Oli score at the end – he’s been superb all year and he’s got a very bright future.
“It was a fantastic team try, and once we’d got our energy sorted after the start, we got into good areas and were able to put our attacking shapes on them. Some of the continuity play was excellent.”
With the away support bolstered by the touring Under 14s, Fraser closed by saying: “It was amazing away support again, and thanks to the coaches for organising their tour to Leicester!
“I’ve been here a fair few times without much backing, and while there aren’t loads of home fans, they can be quite hostile. So, thanks to everyone who came along.”
