England and Loughborough Lightning star Sarah Hunter says the team need to 'peak at the right time' in order to win the Tyrells Premier 15's title.

The number eight has said that while it is important to win games early in the season, they need to capitalise on momentum in the knock-out stages of the competition.

Hunter, whose side currently sit fourth in the table, told NewsChain: "Yeah it's been a bit of a mixed season so far, we've had a few tough results especially against Saracens and Harlequins.

"We've been up by a considerable lead and then lost our way a bit. There's so much potential about the Loughborough team and I think some of those learner moments early on in the season will be really positive for us.

"Obviously our ambition is to win the Premiership. It's nice to win week in week out but we ultimately did that at the beginning of last season, went on an incredible run but then fell short in the semi-final."

Harlequins beat Loughborough 26-10 in the semi-final last season.

Hunter added: "I think we're much more philosophical now and it's about peaking at the right time. We have to get into the top four and while that's certainly where our focus is now, we have to come good at the end of the season."

Hunter's side lost 28-24 to Saracens back in October and a few weeks later they were defeated 36-27 by Harlequins - despite the northern side being 17-0 up after 25 minutes. 

Loughborough beat Richmond 34-0 in the weekend's round of matches and face Worcester at home this weekend.

Hunter has recently been involved in the autumn internationals with England, winning three straight matches and securing her 119th cap for the national side.