Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson was proud of how his side managed to boss the breakdown while maintaining discipline.
He said: “We talked a lot about discipline. You have to play on the edge to compete with Saracens – I wanted us going for turnovers but without giving penalties and cards away. It’s a difficult balance but we were spot on.

“I was delighted with all facets of our game including our lineout which was under pressure early on but

we sorted it on the hoof. You know what’s coming away to Saracens and all week we worked on our defence and set-piece. It was a chance to se...