Douglas pinpointed the rolling maul as a positive in Saturday’s 19-27 defeat against Harlequins, but believes that the team will need to make more of their opportunities against Exeter Chiefs on Saturday.

“We went into the game with the focus on momentum, keeping on top of them with our line-speed, which we didn’t consistently do throughout the game,” Douglas admitted.

“We did well with our mauls but we still feel as though we left three or four try-scoring opportunities on the field. We executed some aspects of what we worked on during the week, but it’s a case of consistently doing that throughout the game, which will lead to results.”

Douglas produced a number of strong carries in a physical encounter at the Rec, with the 23 year-old switching from lock to the back row. Despite his performance, Douglas is looking to Saturday to push on.

“I was happy with some of the carries and tackles that I made. It’s one of those games - I picked up Man of the Match but the result didn’t go our way, so it’s bittersweet. There are things to work on this week for Exeter, but I’m looking forward to getting back out there.

“There were some positives to take from the game at the weekend that I’m sure we will take with us, and build on them. I’m looking forward to it and I know the other boys are as well.”

Saturday’s game was Douglas’ first start of the season, and the forward is hoping that the next two weeks can be the springboard for not only the Club, but him as a player as he looks to force himself into contention for the next block of fixtures.

“It’s (Premiership Rugby Cup) a good competition to gain experience. Training can only give you so much - it’s the real deal when you can get out there on the weekend. It’s a good opportunity to get some valuable experience in a real-life situation and show the coach what you can do as well.

“It’s been my plan for the whole season really (putting hand up for first team selection). It’s an opportunity now for me to get out on the pitch and put in three good performances in these few weeks and hopefully when the (Gallagher) Premiership comes back around, then hopefully I’m in contention.”

Douglas is well aware of the challenge that will face the Blue, Black and White in Devon after Chiefs' triumph in the competition last year. However, the former Oyonnax forward is fully focused on the task in hand.

“We have been focusing on ourselves this week and last week as well. If we can maintain momentum in attack, make hits behind the gain line and turn opportunities into points, we can nullify the threats Exeter pose."

Douglas targets clinical edge

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