London Irish 40 Gloucester 10: Ryan Lamb took revenge on his former club by masterminding the Exiles crushing defeat of Gloucester. The England international also claimed the man-of-the-match award.

Drummed out of Kingsholm as part of Gloucester’s summer exodus, the Exiles outhalf showed them what they were missing with an authoritative display.

The 23-year-old finished with a 20-point haul, although he was given a comfortable ride by a dominant Irish pack.

Winger Sailosi Tagicakibau ran in two tries and Delon Armitage also touched down, while referee Dean Richards awarded a late penalty try.

Gloucester were effectively out of contention by the interval, trailing 23-3, and apart from a bright spell in the second half when winger Charlie Steeples crossed they were well off the pace.

The only concern for Irish, and England, was the sight of Armitage being helped off the pitch in the 61st minute clutching his left wrist.

With Toby Flood, Riki Flutey and Mike Tindall already in the treatment room, England manager Martin Johnson can ill afford any further injuries to his back line.

The fullback’s departure took the shine off an otherwise excellent afternoon for Irish, who recorded their first win of the new league campaign.