Dickens pays tribute to ‘immense’ supporters after thrilling win

Acting backs coach Alan Dickens hailed the ‘outstanding’ support of the Saints fans after the vital victory against Bath.

Northampton had led 20-9 at one point at Franklin’s Gardens, but fell 23-20 behind with 12 minutes remaining as Semesa Rokoduguni intercepted to score.

At that point some supporters opted to head for the exits, but those remaining made themselves heard to force their side over the line.

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Jamie Elliott grabbed his second try of the game - one of the scores of the season so far - with just seven minutes remaining to secure a 25-23 victory.

And Dickens said: “It was with 10 minutes to go that Bath scored the intercept try and the crowd were immense then.

“They got behind us and I’m sure it was a real lift to the players on the pitch.

“The fans that were cheering with 10 minutes to go was outstanding.”

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The victory was reward for Saints’ determined showing, one of their best of the current campaign at the Gardens.

And Dickens was delighted with the hard work his players put in to emerge victorious and remain in the Premiership play-off hunt.

“If we had come away with a defeat it would have been disappointing, but the effort and commitment from the boys was phenomenal,” he said.

“Luckily we were on the right side of the scoreboard.”