French press

BELLEAU BRACE OFF THE BENCH SEALS VICTORY

- by ADRIAN STILES

ANTHONY BELLEAU proved the value of his signing with two tries off the bench as Saints won a pulsating East Midlands derby that saw the lead change hands nine times.

A week after his penalty secured a dramatic win at Gloucester, the Frenchman, playing out of position after replacing the injured Tommy Freeman, tipped the balance in a thrilling win.

Northampton made it back-toback wins on a day they welcomed back four British & Irish Lions.

Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson said: “Fin Smith has really cemented himself in the international scene, so therefore he will be away for large parts of the season.