Northampton Saints emerged victorious against Cardiff with a 28-12 win at Franklin's Gardens, marking the only English side's success in the opening round of the Investec Champions Cup. The Saints, who were quarter-finalists last season, secured four tries in a tense Pool Four encounter.
Northampton led 14-0 at half-time, with tries from James Pater and Toby Thame in challenging conditions. Cardiff fought back in the second half through Harri Millard and Mason Grady, narrowing the gap to two points in the final quarter.
However, George Hendy and Fraser Dingwall responded for Northampton, ensuring a winning start to their European campaign. Despite the win, Saints did not secure a try bonus point. This victory followed a difficult opening weekend for other English Premiership clubs in the top-tier tournament.