NORTHAMPTON
DISCUSSION POINTS
The Chris Boyd era ended in all-out fun. The Kiwi coach instilled a belief in the power of having a go and Saints delivered some sensational rugby. Where they slipped up was on the other side of the ball, conceding way more tries than the other elite sides. And now for evolution – as well as dragging a reputation for attacking play with him, Boyd talked of developing coaches.
It’s Phil Dowson’s team now, with the loftily-rated Sam Vesty as head coach. They have two of the game’s very best in Courtney Lawes and Dan Biggar, while Lewis Ludlam is amongst the Premiership’s finest club men. It’s time to see the rest of Saints’ game match the level of fun.
KEY PLAYER
Scrum-half Alex Mitchell has become integral to how Saints attack, and scored ten tries of his own last term while giving the killer pass 13 times for scores. And while many will be watching what Biggar or Lawes do, they need their nine buzzing.
ONE TO WATCH
When it became official he was leaving the Reds, coach Brad Thorn said of Lukhan Salakaia-Loto: “I’d like him to stay here…” The back-five forward is not only a big unit and a willing worker, but Thorn – who has seen the 25-year-old’s rise closely – talks about his “heart”.
WHAT’ S REALISTIC?
If they can marry defensive steel and bankability at the set-piece to the attacking verve, Saints could not only underline their top-four credentials but make themselves a real threat. Last term, rivals Leicester had their number. Time for Numberwang.
FAN’ S VIEW
RichardMacadam: “The 2022-23 season sees three exciting signings from Australia adding more power to the pack and back-line. Angus Scott-Young, the dynamic Reds back-row, is amongst those to watch.
Saints are developing a young squad who will look to compete again for the top four.”