Relegation, relegation, relegation, it seems to be the buzz-word within the rugby media when talking about ourselves recently.

While, for the first time this season, we are closer to the feared drop zone than we would like to be at this stage in a campaign, it is not yet cause for panic.

Although this is undoubtedly a new and not particularly pleasant experience for the majority of this squad, we know exactly what we have to do and everyone is united in getting out of this precarious situation.

There are still six games to go in the Zurich Premiership for both ourselves and Leeds, while Quins, who have the same points as us, have five matches to play. Realistically, we have to win three of our remaining matches to be sure, and thankfully we have three home matches against Northampton, Wasps and Leeds left to play. These are must-win fixtures.

The strange thing is that it is so tight from seventh place downwards. Therefore a number of teams are still not safe, but even stranger is the fact that a couple of wins could see us sitting in one of the eight championship play-off places. That is how tight it is at the moment.

The Saracens result was an example of our ebb in confidence. We were blitzed in a 12-minute spell during the second half, which saw Sarries score 21 points without reply, and this had a shellshock effect.

There has been some criticism concerning our lack of confidence and lack of cutting edge behind the scrum, but when you consider how short on resources that we are at the moment, this is hardly surprising. Besides myself, for the rest of the season we will be without Mike Catt, Kevin Maggs, Gareth Cooper and Andy Williams from the backs.

As for myself, well there has been some positive news this week. I met with a specialist and he has informed me that I do not need to undergo an operation, but will need plenty of rest. Although it would be difficult to pin-point a return, I'm hoping to be back this season.

On to the internationals, and the selection of Austin Healey at full-back could be seen to be a bold selection for Clive Woodward. Wales should not be under-estimated though, and I'm anticipating a tough match. It should be a cracker! Enjoy, Matt.