Defending champions Northampton Saints have kicked off their new Prem Rugby Union season with a dominant 59-26 victory over Newcastle Red Balls. The Saints' attacking prowess was on full display, with the team scoring nine tries in a performance that served as an early warning to their rivals.
Backs Tommy Freeman and teenager James Pater were standout performers, each securing a hat-trick. George Hendy also made an early statement, underlining his claims for an England squad place, while Emmanuel Iyogun impressed up front.
Despite Newcastle's ambitions to climb out of the league's basement this year, they were repeatedly cut open by Northampton's fast-moving backs. Christian Wade added two tries for Newcastle, but his team never looked likely to overturn the early season odds. Northampton's victory sets a strong tone as they pursue a second consecutive Prem title.