Saints go fourth in battle for play-offs

SAINTS kept well in the race for a playoff place with a hard earned win against a largely shadow Sarries XV that contested the issue to the last. 

- BRENDAN GALLAGHER

Indeed, they celebrated their last-minute bonus point try like a win, which in a way it was.

But the feel-good factor was high for Saints as well. Courtney Lawes safely came through his latest return from injury and concussion issues, Dave Ribbans produced a MOM performance on his last-ever game at Franklin’s Gardens and now it’s all eyes on Newcastle this week when another bonus point win could see them home.

Saracens might have been under strength but they opened up with a startling try, Alex Lewington appearing in midfield to put a grubber through to the corner where Rotimi Segun collected at high pace to show great agility to stay infield and to touch down. Saints in contrast were a little eager early on and a fired up Ribbans managed to spill the ball over the line.