NEW signing James O’Connor was unable to inspire London Irish to a win on his debut, the Exiles slipping to 11th in the Premiership table after a 19-14 defeat at the hands of Northampton Saints at the Madejksi Stadium yesterday afternoon.

Northampton had the better of the early stages and went ahead through a Stephen Myler penalty. Ian Humphreys’ kick levelled the game but Myler restored the lead with his second penalty soon after.

The visitors’ pressure eventually led to a try on 24 minutes, James Wilson finishing off a nice team move, with Myler’s conversion giving Northampton a 13-3 lead.

Australian international O’Connor, who signed for Irish last week, made a couple of good runs as the hosts looked to hit back, the second of which led to a penalty that Humphreys converted. However, another kick from Myler restored Northampton’s 10-point cushion.

Irish got themselves back into the game with a try before half-time, Sailosi Tagicakibau bundling over in the corner to make the score 16-11 at the break.

The Exiles had the better of the second half but were unable to overturn the deficit. Humphreys and Myler exchanged penalties but while Irish enjoyed plenty of possession and territory, they were unable to break through and score the second try they needed.

Despite the defeat, London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith was more than happy with the impact O'Connor made.

"James was outstanding," Smith said. "He's 23 and is still just a kid who gets up in the morning and puts his trousers on one leg at a time like everyone else.

"A lot has happened quickly to him but he's settled in straight away and showed his class today. The boys enjoyed playing with him today.

"We see him as 15, even though many see him as a jack of all trades who has played right along the back line. He wants to establish himself as a full-back."

Irish are in LV= Cup action this weekend, travelling to Newcastle Falcons on Sunday (kick-off 3pm).