The emphatic victory, which featured eight tries, earned Saracens a Round of 16 tie at home to Cardiff Rugby on Sunday, but Scotland centre Taylor said they had to battle earn the win.

Taylor told the club website: “It's always a tough situation coming away to France in a European cup and it was always going to be a tough game.

“There was a lot of running in that first half and to be fair to Brive, they held their own. It was a tough contest with a lot of big hits and we had to really grind them down.

“I think that paid dividends in the second half. We ran around a lot in the first half and I think we managed to run them off their feet in the second half and managed to bag a few tries.”

He added: “I think some of our forwards were great today in the way they carried the ball. They were awesome, they got us on the front foot and freed up the backs to have a dig.

“I think it was a real good collective effort today and it was nice to get the rewards in the end.”

This was Taylor’s 150th match in Saracens colours, having made his debut for the club in 2011, and he is keen to prolong his career with the former European champions.

Taylor said: “It's obviously a very special club to me and it means a lot. Without getting too emotional about it, it has been a big part of my life.

“I love the place, I love the people. I have made so many great memories here and have had so much fun over the last 11 or 12 years that it means a lot to me to get to this milestone.

“It has taken me a while, but I have got there. I want to keep turning out for this club and keep putting my foot forward for selection and hopefully stay fit and contribute in any way I can.”

Duncan Taylor praised Saracens’ fitness as they powered to a 55-5 victory at CA Brive in the EPCR Challenge Cup.