Rugby Furbank hails Hendy after his two tries seal title for Saints

GEORGE Furbank signalled the start of Northampton’s Gallagher Prem title celebrations after Exeter were edged out 26-17 in a tense Allianz Stadium final.

- Duncan BECH

Saints wasted a host of chances against a Chiefs side who defended ferociously but their class eventually shone through, with George Hendy’s try double in the final quarter proving the difference.

It was Furbank’s last appearance for the club before joining Harlequins next season, and the England full-back admitted to conflicting emotions at the final whistle.

Northampton captain Furbank said: “It was a mix of relief, happiness, sadness - all just merged into one. It was a different feeling to the last time we won it in 2024.

“We're going to have a good few days now to celebrate and I’m sure it'll all sink in.

“It’s been a pretty emotional few weeks. I've got a bit of learning to do because I felt pretty drained coming into this game because of the emotion.