However, the end result has been much the same as the Scottish side are right in the mix for another play-off spot in fourth, after finishing third in 2013.
And after tallying their highest points total in a RaboDirectPRO12 game this season against Treviso, Townsend is not about to take that win for granted with a trip to Munster coming up next weekend.
"There are a lot more close games," Townsend told the Herald. "Where teams were losing games last year they're now winning them, so it has been harder.
"Whether you win or lose, whether you have injuries or a great run, it's still a tough job. So it's great when you see players working so hard for each other."
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