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Biggar better for Northampton as Saints hold off Harlequins
By Rob Lancaster
Northampton Saints opened their account in the 2018-19 Premiership season at the second attempt with a 25-18 victory over Harlequins at Franklin's Gardens on Friday.
Dan Biggar kicked 17 points on his home debut, while Dylan Hartley came off the bench to score Saints' only try, as they bounced back after an opening defeat away at Gloucester.
Harlequins crossed twice after the interval - Danny Care and substitute James Lang touching down - but, despite a frantic finish, were forced to settle for a losing bonus point.
Biggar's accurate boot pushed Northampton 12-3 in front before Quins grabbed a try on their first notable attack of the game, scrum-half Care forcing his way over from close range.
Hartley responded by burrowing his way over from a catch-and-drive lineout move, the hooker's first try since taking an extended break from the game due to a head injury leading to a rousing ovation from the home fans.
Yet Saints were forced to survive a late scare, Lang's burst through a stretched defensive line giving Quins hope even with Harry Mallinder kicking a penalty to open up a seven-point gap.
The visitors twice had penalties close to the try line but were unable to make their pressure tell, Northampton eventually forcing a turnover to finally end proceedings.
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Latest Comments
Liverpool? OK, whatever you say 🤷♂️ You spelt Syringeboks wrong, need to calm down a bit and wipe the tears from your eyes.
Go to commentsThat absolute BS, when did you come up with this idea?
All three were well on track to being All Blacks. They simply decided it was smarter to take the money right now rather than slog on for another 3 or 4 years waiting for their opportunity to line up.
Many AB quality players have not even got the chance to earn a cap for heavens sake, it is simply as you suggest elsewhere, better utilization of global talent to have them qualify for another nation.
The only problem is that the ABs get all the best players, mostly because they pay more, and the island nations, even the home nations, just get those that can't make it or want a bit more limelight.
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