Smith expects thrilling climax

Northampton Saints coach Wayne Smith is backing the play-off system to provide English rugby fans with thrills and excitement right through to the end of the season.

His side could be spared the ordeal if they can maintain fourth place in the Zurich Premiership after last night’s 31-19 win at Harlequins enabled them to move, temporarily at least, into pole position the three-way battle with Leicester and Leeds for the final automatic Heineken Cup qualifying spot.