Northampton Saints crowned Premiership champions
Northampton Saints have been crowned Premiership champions after a 35-26 victory over Exeter Chiefs in the final at Allianz Stadium. The win capped a remarkable season for the Saints, who have been widely regarded as the team of the season.
Match defined by yellow cards
The final was not the exhilarating contest many expected, but it featured outstanding defence and two yellow cards that proved decisive. Josh Kemeny of Exeter was yellow-carded in the 51st minute for a high collision with Dafydd Jenkins, who scored Exeter's try a minute later to give the Chiefs a 17-14 lead. Jenkins himself was shown yellow in the 57th minute for a similar incident involving George Furbank.
While both teams were down to 14 men, Northampton took control. When Kemeny returned, the Saints exploited the extra man to score two tries through George Hendy. Northampton's defence then held firm to secure the win.
Stars of the show
Fin Smith, despite an off day with his passing, produced a crucial chip to set up Hendy's second try. Tommy Freeman opened the scoring in the third minute but also had a hand in Exeter's try when his flick was intercepted. Alex Coles was dominant in the set piece and in open play. Henry Pollock earned man of the match for his energy, power, and precision.
"The sheer energy, the power and the precision rightly earned him the man of the match award," wrote Michael Aylwin in his analysis for The Guardian.
A glorious season
Northampton's victory was a fitting end to a season of glorious domestic rugby. The Saints have been praised for their controlled, entertaining style, often described as "divine rugby." The final showcased their defensive resilience and attacking flair, ensuring they ended the season as deserved champions.
