FRANCIS IS TIMING IT RIGHT FOR LANCASTER

A BULLISH performance by Exeter tighthead Tomas Francis could trigger a tug-of-war between Stuart Lancaster and Warren Gatland after the 21st 2lb prop helped end Northampton’s three-month unbeaten run in the Aviva Premiership. Against a side who pride themselves on the set-piece, Francis dominated his scrummaging contest against Alex Corbisiero and put down a significant marker for his inclusion at the World Cup. The 22-year-old — who qualifies for both England and Wales — is yet to pledge his international allegiance, despite having been called up to Gatland’s training camp during the RBS 6 Nations. ‘Tomas is a young man and will only get better through regular exposure,’ said Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter. ‘He’s been to a Welsh training camp, but he’s English.’ With Wales suffering from injury problems in the front row, Francis (right) could be fast-tracked through the ranks to face England in the World Cup pool match. But his performance at Sandy Park may tempt Lancaster to make a late move for the youngster, with Chiefs moving back into the play-off positions with three games to play. Some suspected a Saints backlash following their European exit to Clermont Auvergne but a yellow mist descended and the champions paid the price for indiscipline and inaccuracy. With Calum Clark, Stephen Myler and Alex Waller all sin-binned within 15 minutes of each other, Exeter turned the screw and sent Northampton home empty handed. Exeter started sharply with Phil Dollman touching down before Northampton pulled back through James Wilson’s try. Henry Slade’s penalties and the Saints’ ill-discipline kept Exeter in charge before Francis’ pressure at the set-piece helped earn a penalty try. ‘They put our set piece — particularly our scrums — under pressure,’ said Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder. Jamie Elliot dived over for a late try, but it was scant consolation for the travel-weary Northampton.