Premiership table-toppers Northampton Saints clinched their place in the grand final with a nail-biting 22-20 victory over Saracens.
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In a tense, low-scoring affair, Fin Smith was the hero, slotting five crucial penalties. Owen Farrell, playing through injury in his final outing for Saracens, couldn't quite inspire a comeback.
Burger Odendaal’s try gave the Saints a commanding 10-point lead at half-time. However, Saracens fought back, with Alex Lewington scoring after the break, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Lucio Cinti’s 79th-minute try nearly turned the tide for Saracens, but the visitors were ultimately thwarted, allowing the Saints to advance to the Twickenham final on 8 June. They will face the winner of the Bath-Sale Sharks clash, which takes place on Saturday.
Owen Farrell of England check out the pitch ahead of the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
This defeat marks the end of an era for several Saracens stars, including Owen Farrell, who is set to join French side Racing 92. Since his debut in 2008, Farrell has led Saracens to six Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups.
Check out the full list of Saracens' departing players below.
Saracens departures:
Owen Farrell to Racing 92
Owen Farrell of Saracens during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Saracens and London Irish at the StoneX Stadium, Hendon, London on Sunday 23rd April 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.
Christian Judge to Béziers
Alex Lewington (retired)
Tom West to Northampton Saints
Billy Vunipola (released)
Billy Vunipola of Saracens on the break during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final Match between Leicester Tigers and Saracens at Twickenham Stadium on 18 June 2022. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
Mako Vunipola (released)
Mako Vunipola of Saracens during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final Match between Saracens and Sale Sharks at Twickenham Stadium on 27 May 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
