Northampton’s great entertainers provide fitting ending to glorious Prem season | Michael Aylwin

Northampton Saints were crowned Premiership rugby champions after defeating Exeter in the final, with standout performances from Fin Smith and Henry Pollock. The match was defined more by strong defence than open play, with two yellow cards — one for each side — proving pivotal as 19 points were scored during the resulting periods of numerical disadvantage. Northampton were widely regarded as the team of the season, having been the most impressive side throughout the entire Premiership campaign.