London Welsh coach Martin Jones was in defiant mood after seeing his side's EDF Trophy charge come to an end with an 18-10 defeat at Nottingham on Sunday.

Having suffered a six-try hammering in National Division One at the hands of the same opposition a week earlier, the Exiles responded with a gutsy display that jolted their high-flying opposition.

But despite Hywel Jenkins barging over for a first-half try, Welsh fell just short of creating an upset.

Jones said: "It was a much better performance from the previous week.

"Physically we matched up to them and it was a 100 per cent improvement.

"We had a great opening to the game and even at the death it could have gone either way."

Jones admitted that in previous weeks the Exiles pack, bereft of so many starters, had struggled to exert themselves.

And he revealed his delight at his forwards' efforts.

Jones added: "We stopped them at the gainline and really fronted up.

"We picked a pack that was high on power and would provide some real physicality.

"It was great to get some of the big boys back and there is no doubt we will keep improving from here."

Welsh face a major test this Saturday when second-placed Exeter visit Old Deer Park.

The Exiles were given a 50-point hiding when the sides clashed earlier in the season.

And Jones is looking forward to gauging the progress of his improving side.

Jones added: "It will be a good challenge. Exeter are the form team in the division and have some really strong backs.

"But these back-to-back games against Nottingham have taught us how we need to play against the top teams.

"Saturday will tell us how we are progressing."