Tommy Freeman delivered a sensational individual performance, scoring four tries as Northampton Saints powered past Saracens 43-31 in a high-octane Premiership showdown at Franklin’s Gardens. The result solidifies Northampton’s credentials as genuine title contenders after an attacking masterclass led by fly-half Fin Smith.
The match began with a blistering start from the hosts, who stormed into a 17-0 lead. Freeman’s explosive running and Smith’s sharp kicking carved open Saracens repeatedly. A clever cross-kick from Smith set Freeman free down the right wing before a deft grubber allowed full-back George Hendy to touch down for the opener. Moments later, Tom Pearson pounced after a loose ball at the tryline, and Freeman finished off another flowing move to add a third try.
However, Saracens fought back like the champions they are. Fergus Burke and Jack Bracken both crossed as the visitors rallied, while Owen Farrell’s precise kicking turned the tide. When Juan Martín González powered over before halftime, Saracens improbably led 19-17 at the break.
Northampton needed a spark, and young flanker Henry Pollock provided it with a brilliant intercept that shifted momentum. His play forced a yellow card for Marco Riccioni and set up Pearson for his second try. Smith’s conversion restored the lead before Freeman completed his hat-trick following a slick exchange with scrum-half Alex Mitchell.
Saracens threatened a late comeback when Max Malins scored in the corner, but Smith once again produced a perfectly weighted kick for Freeman to claim his fourth try, sealing a famous victory.
Freeman’s combination of pace, power, and precision highlighted why he is being tipped as one of England’s most dynamic backline talents. With Fin Smith pulling the strings and Pollock continuing to impress, Northampton look poised for another serious title challenge.
For Saracens, it was a night of lessons for rising star Noah Caluori, who struggled to replicate his recent five-try heroics, as the Saints’ relentless pace and flair proved too much to handle
