Northampton Saints come from behind to beat London Irish 25-17

Northampton Saints 25-17 London Irish, Franklin's Gardens
Scorecard

Northampton Saints produced a terrific second half performance to come from behind and went on to beat London Irish 25-17 in their Aviva Premiership encounter at Franklin's Gardens on Saturday.

London Irish, who managed a solitary win in 14 games prior to the kick-off got off to a promising start and as Alex Lewington made most of Northampton's loose pass to cross over in the fifth minute that was converted by Greig Tonks.

Lewington further added to the woes of Northampton with his second try in the game coming in the 24th minute as London Irish claimed a 14 point lead that was reduced to 11 following Piers Francis penalty kick in the 27th minute.

Trailing by 11 points, Northampton showed more intent in the second half with tries from Wales international George North (41'), Rob Horne (44') and Mikey Haywood (48') with Francis kicking a couple of conversions to provide Northampton with a 22-14 lead.

Tonks with his first penalty in the game coming in the 55th minute reduced the gap to five points but Francis timed out a perfect drop goal in the 71st minute to help Northampton complete a 25-17 victory.

Northampton are at 10th place despite the victory while London Irish continue to languish at the bottom.