Five-try Northampton hand Clermont their first defeat

Northampton Saints 34-21 Clermont Auvergne, Franklin's Gardens
Scorecard

Northampton Saints secured their second successive win spread across all the competitions as they went on to beat Clermont Auvergne 34-21 in their European Champions Cup clash at Franklin's Gardens.

This was also Clermont's first defeat in the tournament that has put their qualification chances on hold while Saints registered their first victory in this season's European competition.

Winger Remy Grosso crossed over in the first minute to get the French side off the mark while a conversion from Morgan Parra made it 0-7. The response from Northampton Saints came from Teimana Harrison with his 12th minute try but his efforts were negated by Isaia Toeava.

Replacement Nafi Tuitavake came into action in the 28th minute and straightaway created an impact with his try in the 31st minute following a penalty from Parra as the first half ended 10-15 in favour of the visitors.

The hosts made a strong statement with Ben Foden crossing over early in the second half while Harry Mallinder slotted a conversion and a penalty on either side to make it 20-15 but the French side once again bounced back with back to back penalties from Parra to claim a one point lead.

The final quarter was totally dominated by Northampton when Ken Pisi (63') and Cobus Reinach (72') scored tries while Mallinder's double conversion helped them complete 13 point victory.