Saracens Fall Short in Narrow Defeat as Northampton Saints Secure Premiership Final Spot
BBC Sport | May 13, 2023
In a closely contested BBC rugby union semi-final clash, Northampton Saints edged out defending champions Saracens 22-20 at Franklin’s Gardens. The hard-fought encounter saw both former England captains, Owen Farrell and Courtney Lawes, bid farewell to their respective clubs before departing for French shores at the end of the season.
The league leaders Saracens, led by the departing Farrell, took an early lead through the boot of Elliot Daly. However, Northampton soon seized the initiative, with centre Burger Odendaal crossing the line after a well-executed move. Fly-half Fin Smith then punished Saracens’ indiscipline, slotting five penalties to keep the hosts in front.
“Despite a late try from Saracens’ Alex Lewington, Northampton’s dominant scrum and Smith’s reliable kicking saw them maintain their narrow advantage. The victory ensures the Saints’ return to the Premiership final for the first time since their 2014 title-winning campaign, where they will face either Bath or Sale next Saturday.”
Farrell’s hopes of a triumphant conclusion to his long Saracens career were dashed, while the occasion also marked the departures of fellow England internationals Billy and Mako Vunipola from the north London club. Northampton, on the other hand, can look forward to a shot at the Premiership crown, buoyed by the impressive performances of Smith and Furbank in the semi-final clash.
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