Saints boss Dowson full of praise for 'exceptional' Gloucester
Saints boss Phil Dowson has heaped praise on 'exceptional' Gloucester ahead of Saturday's big Gallagher PREM game at DPD Stadium at Franklin's Gardens (kick-off 5.30pm).
The Cherry and Whites are sitting top of the Gallagher PREM table after winning three of their opening four matches.
Saints are currently five points behind in fourth, having won two and lost two, with both defeats coming on the road, including last Saturday's 28-7 loss to Leicester Tigers.
And Dowson knows his men face a tough challenge as they bid to bounce back this weekend.
“They've been exceptional really,” Dowson said, when asked about Gloucester's form so far this season.
“The signings they've made from a playing basis, the coaches they've brought in, obviously the influence of Chris Boyd is clear in terms of that, the energy they have - George Skivington's done a cracking job during pre-season to put them top of the table thus far.”
So what has impressed Dowson most about Gloucester?
“Just the intensity with which they're going about their work,” he said.
“There have been periods of time over the past two or three seasons where their attack has been outstanding, there have been periods of time when their maul and their forward play has been outstanding - and that's all been put together now.
“That, coupled with the defensive rigour and energy they've got around that from (defence coach) Joel Tomkins, has been impressive.”
Gloucester made some key signings during the summer, notably Wales stars Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake.
“Jac Morgan has probably been player of the season thus far, he's been outstanding, and from what I gather from listening to interviews, he's been outstanding off and on the pitch,” Dowson said.
“Dewi Lake, again, has had a huge impact there.
“Will Joseph is playing the best rugby of his career as well so there are guys in there who are feeling confident.
“(George) Barton at the back looks like he's got the bit between his teeth, Charlie Atkinson has just been called up into the England squad, (Caolan) Englefield looks like a mongrel at nine and getting stuck in, they've got some very good ball carriers in the back five of the scrum, (Jean) Kleyn has been a great signing.
“They've signed well and they've got that cohesion so there's a good energy around the group.”