BATH’S attacking verve put Leicester to the sword last week, but coach Toby Booth knows his side’s other attributes are likely to come under scrutiny at Franklin’s Gardens tomorrow (3.15pm).

Booth understands the air of buoyancy surrounding both his squad and the club’s supporters after three victories from their opening three Aviva Premiership games, but has emphasised that it is only a small step on the route to what he hopes are greater glories.

“It was a great occasion for the supporters and we’re delighted for them,’’ he said of last week’s triumph.

“It was one of those days where things went well for us and for us, it reinforced that we are going along the right path.

“It instils a great belief (in the squad) and games like that – and against Northampton this week – allow us to see how far we’ve come. But it’s a game in a season.

“It’s common sense that the place is slightly more buoyant and if you lose, but we’ll prepare exactly the same as we have.’’ Bath are hoping back row Carl Fearns will recover from a ankle injury for tomorrow’s match-up against the reigning Premiership champions.

Booth added: “This is the biggest challenge so far, without a doubt. Northampton have a good set-piece game, with powerful players and we’ll have to make sure we’re good defensively.

“You’ve got your principles (of how to play) no question and you don’t want to be chopping or changing. We’re very confident in our own ability and we do focus on how we’re going to perform, rather than worry about how anybody else will.’’

Bath are awaiting the medical report on South African Francois Louw after the flanker had surgery on a neck injury he suffered while featuring in the Rugby Championship for his country.

“He’ll be returning to us pretty shortly and we’ll take a look at everything then,’’ added Booth.

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