Saints secure Heineken Cup spot

The Saints lifted the LV= Cup, the competition for Welsh and English sides, after defeating Gloucester 30-24 in a thrilling match at Sixways.

Coach Jim Mallinder said afterwards, "There were two teams who wanted to play rugby, and I thought it was a good advert for the game.

"It shows how far the side has progressed, and it was great for our fantastic set of fans who have supported us through thick and thin. It was special."

The Saints' triumph was secured through tries by prop Soane Tonga'uiha, centre James Downey and scrum-half Lee Dickson in a game when the lead changed hands five times.

Fly-half Stephen Myler's 100 per cent goalkicking return harvested 15 points, and that proved the difference against a Gloucester side that underlined its post-Christmas resurgence.

Myler's opposite number Nicky Robinson kicked 14 points, including the conversion of a penalty try, while flanker Akapusi Qera also touched down, but Saints deservedly shaded an epic tussle.

Their next outing in Europe is the Heineken Cup quarter-final against Munster on April 10, while they are just two points behind leaders Leicester in their domestic competition, the Guinness Premiership.