Northampton, March 22, 2025 – Leicester delivered a crushing 33-0 defeat to reigning English Premiership champions Northampton at Franklin's Gardens on Friday, severely denting the Saints' hopes of defending their title.
The loss leaves Northampton eighth in the 10-team league, nine points adrift of the top four, making a play-off spot increasingly unlikely. Meanwhile, Leicester surged into third place, strengthening their position in the race for the postseason.
A Nightmare Start for Northampton
With several key internationals absent following England’s Six Nations campaign—including Alex Mitchell and Tommy Freeman rested, and Ollie Sleightholme sidelined due to injury—Northampton struggled from the outset. The Saints also continue to feel the impact of losing experienced forwards like former England captain Courtney Lawes, who retired after last season’s triumph.
Leicester wasted no time capitalizing on their rivals' vulnerabilities, racing to a remarkable three-try lead within the first 13 minutes. Adam Radwan, Jack van Poortvliet, and Olly Cracknell all crossed the try line, leaving Northampton shell-shocked in front of their home crowd.
Handré Pollard, the South African World Cup-winning fly-half, added two penalties either side of the half-hour mark, extending Leicester’s dominance to 23-0. The Tigers' relentless defensive pressure ensured Northampton had no way back into the game.
Bonus Point Secured in Style
With just four minutes remaining, Charlie Clare intercepted a wayward pass and raced clear to secure Leicester’s fourth try and a crucial bonus point.
"It feels amazing," said scrum-half Van Poortvliet, who scored a sensational solo try. Speaking to TNT Sports, he emphasized the team’s defensive performance: "I think the nil's almost the most pleasing thing. The boys have worked really hard in the time we've been away (with England). Especially in defence, and to see that pay off today, we'll take real confidence from that."
Elsewhere in the Premiership
Sale recorded their first Premiership win of 2025 with a commanding 39-15 victory over Newcastle. First-half tries from Bevan Rodd, Rob du Preez, and Tom O'Flaherty, along with two penalties from returning England fly-half George Ford, gave Sale a comfortable 17-point halftime lead.
Despite being reduced to 14 men in the second half at Kingston Park, Joe Carpenter scored Sale’s fifth try to seal the victory, boosting their top-four aspirations. Meanwhile, Newcastle remain bottom of the table with just two wins from 12 league matches.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Saracens take on London rivals Harlequins, while league leaders Bristol face Exeter in a crucial west country derby on Saturday. Sunday’s action sees Bath hosting Gloucester in another southwest showdown.
Leicester’s statement win over Northampton not only reinforced their title credentials but also exposed the Saints' struggles in a post-title transition. With the Premiership season entering a decisive phase, every point will be vital in the race for the playoffs.
You must be logged in to post a comment.