Can Northampton find another level after shock of Leinster? 

Expect Phil Dowson’s Saints to hit the accelerator in Cardiff against a French side packed with creative talent

THROWING IT AROUND: Northampton's Fin Smith against Leinster in the Champions Cup semi-final at Aviva Stadium. Pic: Billy Stickland, Inpho

How do Northampton Saints go again? After pulling off a stunning upset to avenge last season’s semi-final defeat by Leinster and take their place in Saturday’s final, the question is how do Phil Dowson’s side overcome one of the French giants, Bordeaux, to clinch the Champions Cup?

Had the final been a week later I’d have feared for Northampton but they are helped by the ability to distract themselves with Premiership action, and I think the manner of victory over Leinster plays into their hands. Northampton need to focus on being unashamedly themselves. In Dublin the gameplan was to put the car into fifth gear from the first whistle and that’s precisely what they did. When your approach is so authentic and in keeping with your culture, it makes it that much easier.