NORTHAMPTON RECORD WIN OVER CARDIFF

Northampton rugby team recorded a much-needed win over the Cardiff blues. A Dan Parks penalty gave the visitors the lead, and although a converted Paul Diggin try put Saints in front, three Parks penalties put the Blues 12-7 up.

A Stephen Myler penalty made it 12-10 at the break and Saints went in front through Chris Ashton’s converted try.

Two more Myler penalties then kept the Blues at arm’s length, despite a fifth penalty from Parks for the visitors.

Northampton head into next Sunday’s return in Cardiff as clear pool leaders with 12 points, three points clear of second-placed Castres, who beat Edinburgh 21-16.