Saints’ progress is not guaranteed, says Mallinder

NORTHAMPTON can become the first team through to this season’s Heineken Cup quarter-finals tonight — but Saints boss Jim Mallinder is taking nothing for granted.

Saints have reached the blue riband tournament’s last-eight on five previous occasions, including last season when they bowed out against twice European champions Munster.

A bonus-point victory over Franklin’s Gardens visitors Edinburgh would guarantee that unbeaten Northampton finish top of Pool One, but four points or a draw would be enough if Castres lose to Cardiff Blues tonight.