Northampton boss Phil Dowson said “relief ” was his biggest feeling after Exeter had fought back to give Saints a late scare.
He praised man-of-the-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 trie...