Saints tipped to reach big final
Former Saints flanker Peter Walton believes his old club will go one step further and reach the Premiership final next season.
Walton, who spent three seasons at Franklin's Gardens and is now England Under-18s assistant coach, feels Jim Mallinder's side will improve after reaching the Premiership semi-finals last term and winning the LV= Cup.
Mallinder has made 12 signings over the summer, mainly English and young, and Walton feels the Saints squad has the makings of one that can challenge for the title.
"I think Saints will kick on again this season, they have got good players," said Walton, who was forwards coach at Newcastle for three years before he left to take up his post at the RFU.
"I think they will have another good season, their young players will have the benefit of the experience of last season behind them. I can see them reaching the final this time or doing something big in the Heineken Cup."
Walton has first hand knowledge of ex-Newcastle players Lee Dickson, Phil Dowson and new lock Mark Sorenson and believes they will thrive under Mallinder's regime.
Dowson had a superb first season with Saints, being nominated for Guinness Premiership Player of the Year and finally breaking into the senior England squad when he was called up as injury cover for the tour of Australia, getting his first international start against New Zealand Maori.
Walton feels that will have done the 28-year-old the world of good and he will take his game to another level next season.
"I have spoken to Dows (Dowson) and he is loving it there," said Walton. "He is a terrific bloke, just the sort of hard-working, honest character you want in your side.
"After a good first season there I think he will kick on and be even better next season. He is at a good age and after having a taste of England he will want to improve, especially with the chance of getting into the World Cup squad on the horizon.
"He is the type of guy who is very loyal and leads from the front."
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Friday 10 February 2012
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