Dowson's delight as selection decisions pay off in superb style for Saints at Bath

Dowson opted to rest several heavily-worked international stars but still named a strong side for the trip to The Rec.

And his selection decisions paid off in fantastic fashion as Saints delivered a memorable and dominant display at the home of the current Gallagher PREM champions.

"It (resting key players) is exactly what (Bath boss) Johan van Graan did last week up at Newcastle," Dowson said.

"It's a nine-week block before the Six Nations when we have a PRC (PREM Rugby Cup) break when we can rest and recover, and we want these players to be right over the next few weeks, we want them to be right over the next few months and we want them to be right over the next few years as well.

"There's lots of those lads who weren't playing today who have played a ton of rugby, both internationally and with the Saints over the past few weeks.

"This is basically the middle of the block, we have Quins at home next week followed by three more games before the Six Nations so it just gives us the opportunity.

"From a welfare point of view and a consistency point of view and also trust in the squad as well, because we know what they're capable of, that's how it worked out. It's a risk but today it paid off."

When asked whether he is temped to stick with the same side at home to Harlequins next Saturday, Dowson said: "Sam (Vesty) and I will sit on the bus and talk about it!

"James Craig talks about it all the time in terms of iron sharpens iron, but the competition within the squad is something we really try to push.

"So much of the game goes through your nine and 10, and Archie McParland and Anthony Belleau were both outstanding today.

"Arch challenged around the fringes as well as moving the ball and kicking well.

"Anthony, the lessons he's picked up from Sam and Jake Sharp in terms of his attacking game, turning corners, really engaging the line and then moving the ball, I thought he was brilliant as well."