Northampton Saints’ Tommy Freeman said after the match
“It was a good start and we scored plenty of points, which is encouraging. We know there is much more improvement available, as we discussed at half‑time, but overall it’s a solid win.”
Freeman added that the team needs to sharpen its set‑piece execution and improve defensive cohesion. He acknowledged Newcastle’s pressure but expressed a desire for better fluid movement.
He emphasised the rarity of back‑to‑back titles, noting it’s a difficult feat, and vowed to focus on one week at a time while maintaining the squad’s distinctive style on the field.
Newcastle head coach Dan McFarland said
The coach reported that the team displayed several strong areas but faced a formidable opponent. He acknowledged the lessons learned and noted the long road ahead, viewing today as just the first step.
McFarland praised a spectacular length‑of‑the‑field try and highlighted the defensive scrumming that repeatedly halted Northampton’s attacks.
He noted the game’s fluctuating nature, referencing a yellow‑card period that led to three conceded tries, with the pre‑half‑time score proving decisive.
Despite the defeat, he found optimism in the positives and vowed to carry the experience forward.
Northampton squad
Starting back: Pater, Freeman, Hutchinson, Dingwall, Hendy, F Smith, McParland, Iyogun, Langdon, Kundiona, Coles, Prowse, Kemeny, Pollock, Chick.
Replacements: R Smith, Fischetti, Neculai, Lockett, Taylor, Mitchell, Belleau, Sleightholme.
Newcastle squad
Starting back: Obatoyinbo, Wade, Hearle, Harris, Kok, Connon, Elliott, Rakete‑Stones, McGuigan, Millar Mills, Usher, Jordan, Hicks, Christie, Graham.
Replacements: Fletcher, West, Harper, Molina, Leatherbarrow, Cruz, Henry, Sotutu.
Sin bin
Obatoyinbo (14), Rakete‑Stones (43)
Referee
Anthony Woodthorpe
