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This English town isn't exactly the most glamorous destination in the world, but its squad provides an abundance of romance and adventure.

In a city known for footwear manufacturing, you could anticipate punting to be the Northampton's modus operandi. However under leader Phil Dowson, the squad in their distinctive colors prefer to retain possession.

Despite representing a typically British community, they exhibit a style synonymous with the greatest Gallic exponents of champagne rugby.

From the time Dowson and fellow coach Sam Vesty took over in 2022, the Saints have claimed victory in the English top flight and progressed well in the Champions Cup – losing to Bordeaux-Bègles in the ultimate match and ousted by Leinster in a semi-final previously.

They currently top the league standings after a series of victories and one tie and visit their West Country rivals on Saturday as the just one without a loss, aiming for a first win at Bristol's home since 2021.

It would be typical to think Dowson, who played 262 elite fixtures for various teams combined, had long intended to be a manager.

“As a professional, I didn't really think about it,” he states. “However as you get older, you comprehend how much you enjoy the sport, and what the everyday life entails. I worked briefly at a financial institution doing a trial period. You make the journey a several occasions, and it was difficult – you realise what you possess and lack.”

Talks with club legends led to a position at the Saints. Fast-forward eight years and Dowson guides a roster ever more filled with internationals: prominent figures lined up for the national side versus the New Zealand two weeks ago.

The young flanker also had a major effect from the replacements in England’s flawless campaign while Fin Smith, in time, will inherit the No 10 jersey.

Is the development of this exceptional generation because of the team's ethos, or is it luck?

“This is a mix of each,” says Dowson. “I would acknowledge the former director of rugby, who gave them opportunities, and we had some tough days. But the exposure they had as a collective is certainly one of the factors they are so tight and so gifted.”

Dowson also namechecks Mallinder, a former boss at the club's home, as a key figure. “I was lucky to be guided by really interesting personalities,” he notes. “Mallinder had a big impact on my career, my training methods, how I manage individuals.”

The team demonstrate attractive football, which was clearly evident in the case of their new signing. The Frenchman was a member of the opposing team defeated in the European competition in last season when Tommy Freeman notched a hat-trick. He admired the style enough to reverse the trend of UK players joining Top 14 sides.

“A mate rang me and stated: ‘There’s a Gallic number ten who’s looking for a team,’” Dowson recalls. “I replied: ‘We don’t have budget for a imported playmaker. Another target will have to wait.’

‘He’s looking for new challenges, for the chance to prove his worth,’ my contact said. That interested me. We met with Belleau and his language skills was incredible, he was articulate, he had a funny side.

“We asked: ‘What are you seeking from this?’ He answered to be guided, to be challenged, to be outside his comfort zone and away from the domestic competition. I was like: ‘Come on in, you’re a great person.’ And he has been. We’re lucky to have him.”

Dowson states the 20-year-old Henry Pollock provides a unique enthusiasm. Does he know anyone comparable? “Not really,” Dowson replies. “All players are unique but Pollock is different and unique in multiple respects. He’s fearless to be himself.”

Pollock’s breathtaking touchdown against the Irish side last season showcased his freakish skill, but a few of his demonstrative in-game antics have brought claims of overconfidence.

“On occasion seems arrogant in his behavior, but he’s far from it,” Dowson asserts. “Plus Henry’s being serious the whole time. Game-wise he has input – he’s no fool. I feel at times it’s portrayed that he’s only a character. But he’s bright and a positive influence within the team.”

Hardly any coaches would admit to sharing a close bond with a colleague, but that is how Dowson describes his relationship with his co-coach.

“Together have an curiosity around different things,” he explains. “We run a reading group. He aims to discover all aspects, aims to learn each detail, desires to try varied activities, and I believe I’m the alike.

“We converse on many subjects outside the game: films, reading, thoughts, culture. When we met our French rivals previously, the landmark was undergoing restoration, so we had a quick look.”

One more fixture in France is approaching: The Saints' reacquaintance with the English competition will be temporary because the European tournament takes over soon. The French side, in the foothills of the Pyrenees, are up first on matchday before the South African team travel to a week later.

“I won't be presumptuous sufficiently to {