Saracens in position for sprint to the line

SARACENS flanker Andy Christie faces a stern task breaking into the Scotland back row for the Six Nations but an outstanding performance in this win over Exeter will have done his cause no harm. 

- BRENDAN GALLAGHER

Christie was everywhere in attack and defence and was good value for his third MOM award in the last eight games as Saracens pulled away in the second half after a competitive opening 40 minutes. In a season of fluctuating performance Christie had been arguably their best player, certainly the most consistent.

Both sides had come to play and shared four tries before the break and, although there were mistakes along the way, the quality of rugby more than made amends.

Saracens hooker James Hadfield, who bats number three behind absent England squad members Jamie George and Theo Dan, couldn’t stop scoring tries for Jersey Reds in the Championship last season – he amassed 11 – and took just five minutes here to finish off a lineout rumble.