Northampton start title defence with nine-try win over Newcastle

Northampton Saints opened their Prem title defence with a nine-try, 59-26 victory over Newcastle Red Bulls at Franklin's Gardens. [1]

James Pater and Tommy Freeman each scored a hat-trick, with George Hendy, Alex Coles and Ollie Sleightholme also crossing for the champions. Northampton, who won their second league title in three years in June, led 31-14 at half-time. [1]

Newcastle, following a summer in which they brought in 25 players, scored four tries of their own. Werner Kok's late score ensured the visitors left with a bonus point despite the heavy defeat. [1]

Discipline proved costly for Newcastle. Harrison Obatoyinbo was sin-binned for a trip in the 14th minute, while Pouri Rakete-Stones received a yellow card for a no-hands tackle in the 43rd. [1]

Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle, head coach Dan McFarland said his side had conceded three tries during a yellow-card spell and described the try just before half-time as particularly damaging. He nevertheless saw positives against a strong opponent, while stressing that Newcastle faced a long process of improvement. His comments were carried in BBC Sport's match report. [1]