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This English town isn't exactly the most exotic destination globally, but its rugby union team delivers an abundance of thrills and drama.

In a town known for shoe production, you might expect punting to be the Northampton's modus operandi. However under leader Phil Dowson, the side in the club's hues choose to run with the ball.

Even though playing for a distinctly UK location, they display a style synonymous with the best French masters of expansive play.

From the time Dowson and the head coach Sam Vesty took over in 2022, the Saints have won the domestic league and progressed well in the Champions Cup – losing to their Gallic opponents in last season’s final and ousted by Leinster in a last-four clash previously.

They lead the Prem table after four wins and a draw and visit Bristol on Saturday as the just one without a loss, chasing a maiden victory at their opponent's ground since 2021.

It would be expected to think Dowson, who participated in 262 elite fixtures for Newcastle, Northampton and Worcester in total, consistently aimed to be a manager.

“As a professional, I never seriously considered it,” he says. “But as you age, you realise how much you appreciate the sport, and what the normal employment entails. I worked briefly at Metro Bank doing a trial period. You travel to work a few times, and it was challenging – you grasp what you do and don’t have.”

Talks with club legends led to a role at Northampton. Move forward several seasons and Dowson guides a team progressively filled with global stars: prominent figures started for England facing the the Kiwis two weeks ago.

An emerging talent also had a major effect from the replacements in the national team's flawless campaign while Fin Smith, eventually, will take over the No 10 jersey.

Is the emergence of this outstanding group because of the club's environment, or is it chance?

“It's a bit of both,” says Dowson. “I would acknowledge Chris Boyd, who basically just threw them in, and we had some tough days. But the exposure they had as a group is undoubtedly one of the causes they are so united and so skilled.”

Dowson also mentions his predecessor, an earlier coach at the club's home, as a key figure. “I’ve been fortunate to be mentored by exceptionally insightful personalities,” he adds. “Mallinder had a significant influence on my rugby life, my coaching, how I manage others.”

Saints demonstrate entertaining the game, which became obvious in the example of their new signing. The Frenchman was part of the opposing team overcome in the European competition in the spring when Tommy Freeman notched a hat-trick. Belleau was impressed enough to go against the flow of British stars joining Top 14 sides.

“An associate phoned me and stated: ‘We've found a fly-half from France who’s looking for a club,’” Dowson says. “I said: ‘We lack the funds for a French fly-half. Another target will have to wait.’

‘He wants a fresh start, for the possibility to prove his worth,’ my contact said. That intrigued us. We spoke to Belleau and his language skills was excellent, he was articulate, he had a sense of humour.

“We asked: ‘What are you seeking from this?’ He said to be guided, to be driven, to be facing unfamiliar situations and beyond the domestic competition. I was thinking: ‘Welcome aboard, you’re a great person.’ And he has been. We’re fortunate to have him.”

Dowson says the emerging Henry Pollock offers a specific enthusiasm. Has he coached a player like him? “Never,” Dowson answers. “Each person is individual but Henry is different and unique in numerous aspects. He’s not afraid to be who he is.”

Pollock’s sensational touchdown against their opponents in the past campaign illustrated his freakish skill, but some of his demonstrative during matches actions have led to allegations of arrogance.

“At times appears arrogant in his actions, but he’s far from it,” Dowson says. “And Henry’s being serious all the time. In terms of strategy he has input – he’s not a clown. I think sometimes it’s shown that he’s only a character. But he’s bright and great to have in the squad.”

Hardly any managers would describe themselves as having a bromance with a colleague, but that is how Dowson frames his partnership with Sam Vesty.

“Together possess an inquisitiveness around diverse subjects,” he says. “We maintain a book club. He wants to see various elements, aims to learn all there is, desires to try new experiences, and I feel like I’m the same.

“We converse on many things beyond the game: films, reading, ideas, art. When we played Stade [Français] last year, the cathedral was being done up, so we had a quick look.”

One more match in France is coming up: Northampton’s reacquaintance with the English competition will be temporary because the European tournament kicks in shortly. Pau, in the vicinity of the mountain range, are the initial challenge on the coming weekend before the Pretoria-based club visit soon after.

“I won't be overconfident enough to {