Pisi feels like an ‘oldie’ alongside Saints’ talented teens

The 24-year-old wing, who arrived at Northampton from North Harbour last summer, was involved in the 45-21 win at Bedford on Friday night.

Jim Mallinder took the chance to give a number of young players some game time in that match as he looks to develop his club’s academy hopefuls ahead of the new campaign.

Harry Mallinder, son of the boss, was one of a number of teenage talents to get a run-out, making his first appearance in Saints colours and even kicking a late conversion.

And Pisi, who was on the pitch for longer than any other Northampton player, being taken off in the 70th minute, enjoyed the enthusiasm of the youngsters around him.

“It was really good,” said the Samoan. “The boys were down at half-time, we needed to fix some areas and we did.

“Big up to Bedford, they did really well first half and had a (21-19) lead, but our young guys came on and did well.

“With those young guys and their enthusiasm alongside me, I feel like an oldie.”