Saints keen to set the record straight at Sale

But he says the men from Franklin’s Gardens will be looking to set the record straight today (Sunday).

Saints have been well beaten in the previous two league visits to Sale, losing 19-6 in 2014 and 20-7 last season.

They did win there in an Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-final two seasons ago, but neither team was anywhere near full strength on that occasion.

And Saints will be desperate to get their first Premiership win at the AJ Bell Stadium since November, 2012 this weekend.

“We were well beaten,” said assistant coach Dickens, reflecting on the previous two Premiership games at the Sharks.

“After the first loss in the Premiership we went up there and put in a really good performance in the Amlin so that’s what we’re looking to put in again this weekend.

“They did a job on us in the league.

“Both games were around Six Nations time and they’re a good side, a tough team to beat at home.

“This season, we need to get momentum on board because games come thick and fast.”

Steve Diamond’s side earned a home win against Worcester Warriors last weekend, showing plenty of the grit and determination that makes them such a difficult opponent.

And Dickens said: “We need to go up there, we need to concentrate on ourselves and be accurate and efficient and play good away rugby.

“It’s a tough place to go.

“We know Steve Diamond well from his time at Northampton and he will put demands on them, expecting them to put in a performance as well.”