Mallinder targets victory

Northampton boss Jim Mallinder has challenged the Saints to transform a “good season” into a successful campaign by landing the European Challenge Cup.

The Saints tackle Bourgoin at The Stoop tonight with both silverware and a place in next season’s Heineken Cup draw at stake.

Northampton have not played since May 1, when they beat Saracens 16-13 to reach the final, while Bourgoin have been in Top 14 action on each of the last two weekends.

But Saints captain Bruce Reihana insisted their “killer instincts” are still razor sharp despite three weeks without a game.

And Mallinder said: “In many ways we have had a good season but success is only measured by the number of trophies that you win. Tonight we have the opportunity to win a major tournament.

“Bourgoin showed when they beat London Irish that they cannot be underestimated. Since then they have built up some good momentum in the Challenge Cup and in the Top 14.”