Dowson relieved to get over line

NORTHAMPTON boss Phil Dowson said “relief ” was his biggest feeling after Exeter had fought back to give Saints a late scare: “Defensively we were brilliant and we had to dig in which you have to do against Exeter.”

He praised man-ofthe-match Fin Smith for his contribution and the growing confidence of the fly-half which puts him firmly in contention for an England spot this autumn: “There’s a lot of competition, but he’s definitely in the conversation.”

Dowson said he was still awaiting a full verdict on the neck injury which has meant England scrum-half Alex Mitchell has yet to start this season, adding: “Hopefully we should have clarity next week.”

Exeter boss Rob Baxter tried to be upbeat despite a second defeat of the season: “I’m delighted we got a losing bonus point from a display where we have done some pretty odd things. We have to stick at it – we will get there.”

Baxter was frustrated at his team’s play immediately after half-time following Josh Hodge’s penalty. “We go from kicking a penalty to not doing anything right.”