Dowson joined Northampton from Newcastle in the summer of 2009

Northampton forward Phil Dowson praised the Saints' "phenomenal" pack following Saturday's 34-13 victory over Newcastle at Franklin's Gardens.

Four tries helped Saints to a bonus-point win which keeps them second in the Premiership table, just a point behind London Irish.

"The tight five were phenomenal again," Dowson told BBC Radio Northampton.

"It's almost impossible to defend against scrummaging like that and it gave us a great platform."

Back-rower Dowson added: "We said last week [against Wasps] we'd set ourselves some high standards and we had to back them up against a tough challenge from the north east.

"To get two bonus-point wins in a row is really pleasing.

"We need to keep pushing on, keep learning and make sure we do it week in and week out," added Dowson, who played for Newcastle before joining the Saints ahead of last season.

"We've certainly learned from last year. Our coaches have been talking about us being a bit more clinical towards the end of games."

Northampton return to action on Sunday, away to Saracens at Vicarage Road in the LV= Cup (1500 GMT).

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version