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Northampton Saints Edge Bath in Thrilling Clash

Northampton Saints secured a narrow victory over Bath in a thrilling Gallagher Premiership match on January 7, 2025. The game concluded with a dramatic final penalty kick from Fin Smith, sealing a 35-34 win for the Saints. Bath mounted a strong comeback in the second half but ultimately fell just short of clinching the win. Following the match, Bath's Ollie Lawrence expressed his regret over his reaction to a clash with Alex Mitchell, acknowledging his frustration and committing to improve his conduct on the field.

This victory for Northampton Saints is crucial as they continue their pursuit of a play-off spot, now sitting eighth in the standings and just eight points behind the top four teams. Meanwhile, Bath, despite the loss, maintained their lead at the top of the table over Bristol Bears, with Saracens and Leicester Tigers climbing to third and fourth place, respectively.

In the women's league, Leicester Tigers Women showcased an impressive performance against Sale Sharks Women, winning 38-17. Meg Jones was the standout player, scoring a hat-trick in the first half, while Emily Henrich contributed with two tries. Although Sale Sharks improved in the second half with tries from Sophie Hopkins and Iona Antwis, they could not overcome the Tigers' early dominance.

Gloucester-Hartpury Women triumphed in a significant Westcountry derby against Bristol Bears, winning 40-17. Emma Sing opened the scoring for Gloucester-Hartpury, and despite Bristol's efforts, including tries from Millie David and Alisha Joyce-Butchers, the visitors controlled the second half with multiple scores, including late tries from Mia Venner and Georgia Brock.

Loughborough Lightning Women also celebrated a notable victory, defeating Saracens 22-17. Krissy Scurfield was instrumental for Loughborough, scoring twice, while Sadia Kabeya and Emily Scarratt added to the scoreline. Saracens fought back with tries from Zoe Harrison, Sydney Gregson, and Maya Montiel, but Loughborough managed to hold on for the win.

#GallagherPremiership,#NorthamptonSaints,#BathRugby,#WomensRugby,#LeicesterTigers