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Northampton may not be the most tropical spot on the planet, but its rugby union team delivers a great deal of romance and adventure.

In a city renowned for shoe production, you would think boot work to be the Saints’ main approach. But under leader Phil Dowson, the squad in green, black and gold opt to retain possession.

Although playing for a distinctly UK community, they showcase a flair associated with the greatest Gallic exponents of attacking rugby.

From the time Dowson and his colleague Sam Vesty assumed control in 2022, the Saints have claimed victory in the Premiership and progressed well in the Champions Cup – defeated by a French side in the ultimate match and knocked out by the Irish province in a last-four clash before that.

They sit atop the competition ladder after a series of victories and one tie and visit Bristol on the weekend as the only unbeaten side, aiming for a initial success at Bristol's home since 2021.

It would be typical to think Dowson, who played 262 top-flight matches for Newcastle, Northampton and Worcester in total, always planned to be a trainer.

“During my career, I never seriously considered it,” he states. “Yet as you get older, you realise how much you love the sport, and what the everyday life entails. I spent some time at Metro Bank doing work experience. You make the journey a multiple instances, and it was tough – you grasp what you do and don’t have.”

Talks with former mentors culminated in a job at the Saints. Move forward several seasons and Dowson manages a squad progressively filled with global stars: prominent figures started for the Red Rose facing the the Kiwis two weeks ago.

An emerging talent also had a profound impact from the replacements in the national team's perfect autumn while Fin Smith, down the line, will assume the pivotal position.

Is the rise of this remarkable group attributable to the Saints’ culture, or is it chance?

“This is a combination of the two,” comments Dowson. “I would acknowledge an ex-coach, who thrust them into action, and we had difficult periods. But the experience they had as a collective is definitely one of the factors they are so tight and so gifted.”

Dowson also mentions Mallinder, an earlier coach at Franklin’s Gardens, as a significant mentor. “I’ve been fortunate to be mentored by really interesting people,” he notes. “Jim had a big impact on my rugby life, my training methods, how I deal with others.”

The team demonstrate entertaining rugby, which became obvious in the example of their new signing. The Gallic player was involved with the opposing team beaten in the European competition in last season when Tommy Freeman registered a three tries. The player liked what he saw to such an extent to go against the flow of UK players joining Top 14 sides.

“An associate rang me and stated: ‘We've found a Gallic number ten who’s in search of a team,’” Dowson explains. “I said: ‘There's no money for a overseas star. A different option will have to wait.’

‘He wants a fresh start, for the possibility to test himself,’ my friend told me. That caught my attention. We spoke to Anthony and his language skills was outstanding, he was eloquent, he had a funny side.

“We inquired: ‘What are your goals from this?’ He said to be coached, to be driven, to be facing unfamiliar situations and away from the domestic competition. I was like: ‘Welcome aboard, you’re a great person.’ And he proved to be. We’re fortunate to have him.”

Dowson comments the 20-year-old the flanker offers a unique enthusiasm. Has he coached anyone comparable? “Not really,” Dowson responds. “Everyone’s original but he is unusual and remarkable in multiple respects. He’s unafraid to be himself.”

Pollock’s spectacular score against the Irish side in the past campaign showcased his freakish talent, but some of his demonstrative in-game antics have resulted in accusations of overconfidence.

“He sometimes seems cocky in his actions, but he’s far from it,” Dowson clarifies. “Plus Henry’s not taking the piss constantly. Tactically he has input – he’s no fool. I feel on occasion it’s portrayed that he’s just this idiot. But he’s bright and great to have to have around.”

Few coaches would admit to sharing a close bond with a colleague, but that is how Dowson frames his partnership with Sam Vesty.

“Sam and I share an interest regarding various topics,” he explains. “We have a book club. He desires to explore everything, seeks to understand all there is, wants to experience new experiences, and I feel like I’m the same.

“We discuss numerous subjects outside rugby: films, reading, thoughts, culture. When we played Stade [Français] previously, the landmark was under renovation, so we had a brief exploration.”

One more match in France is coming up: Northampton’s return with the English competition will be short-lived because the European tournament intervenes shortly. Their next opponents, in the foothills of the Pyrenees, are the opening fixture on Sunday week before the Bulls visit a week later.

“I refuse to be arrogant to the extent to {