Centre PJ Gidlow is confident London Scottish will learn a lot from a 40-5 thrashing from Premiership runners-up Saracens, writes Oli Shapley.

Director of rugby Mike Friday’s men were dealt a harsh lesson at the Allianz Park last week as they opened their pre-season campaign in miserable fashion.

But far from being downbeat, Gidman believes the experience will only help as the exiles target a top four finish in the Championship this term.

“We can learn a lot from the Saracens game. They are a quality outfit with loads of internationals in their squad,” he said.

“It was a good marker to see where we are at this stage of the season.

“We have had a long pre-season with 10 weeks of training, so it was good to finally get a run out.

“The team have taken the positives and will be moving those on towards Esher tomorrow.”

The Samoan added: “It’s always nice to play at home with our own supporters watching.

“We have good confidence and are hoping for some more attacking ball at home at the weekend.

“It is important that we get back on the right side of results ahead of the new Championship season.

“We all want to get into the top four and there is a genuine belief we can get there.”