In a game dominated by the boot, Freeman’s late try – and Fin Smith’s conversion – sealed victory for the hosts
Tommy Freeman reminded Eddie Jones there is a back-three star waiting in the wings with two smart tries as Northampton Saints overcame struggling Exeter Chiefs.
In a game dominated by the boot, the hosts’ fly-half Fin Smith slotted four penalties and two conversions for a personal haul of 16 points in a flawless kicking display which means he is yet to miss from the tee for his new club in 12 attempts.
The very first impact saw Ollie Sleightholme fly into his opposite number Dan John and the in-form Saints winger was lucky the game was just two seconds old.
He pummeled his forearm straight into the Chiefs player’s face and the TMO was spared a job as Craig Maxwell-Keys blew for a penalty only.