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This English town may not be the most exotic spot in the world, but its squad provides an abundance of romance and adventure.

In a place known for boot‑making, you might expect kicking to be the Northampton's modus operandi. But under the director of rugby Phil Dowson, the team in the club's hues prefer to run with the ball.

Although playing for a typically British town, they showcase a panache synonymous with the best French masters of expansive play.

After Dowson and his colleague Sam Vesty took over in 2022, the Saints have claimed victory in the domestic league and gone deep in the Champions Cup – losing to Bordeaux-Bègles in the previous campaign's decider and eliminated by Dublin-based club in a last-four clash earlier.

They currently top the competition ladder after a series of victories and one tie and head to Ashton Gate on the weekend as the just one without a loss, aiming for a maiden victory at Ashton Gate since 2021.

It would be natural to think Dowson, who featured in 262 top-flight games for multiple clubs altogether, consistently aimed to be a manager.

“When I played, I hadn't given it much thought,” he remarks. “But as you mature, you realise how much you love the rugby, and what the everyday life is like. I spent some time at Metro Bank doing work experience. You do the commute a few times, and it was challenging – you grasp what you possess and lack.”

Discussions with former mentors culminated in a role at Northampton. Jump ahead several seasons and Dowson leads a team progressively packed with national team players: Tommy Freeman, Fraser Dingwall, Alex Mitchell and Alex Coles started for the Red Rose versus the New Zealand two weeks ago.

The young flanker also had a major effect from the replacements in the national team's perfect autumn while Fin Smith, in time, will assume the fly-half role.

Is the development of this exceptional group attributable to the team's ethos, or is it chance?

“This is a mix of each,” states Dowson. “I would acknowledge an ex-coach, who gave them opportunities, and we had difficult periods. But the practice they had as a collective is certainly one of the causes they are so united and so gifted.”

Dowson also mentions Mallinder, an earlier coach at their stadium, as a significant mentor. “I was lucky to be mentored by highly engaging personalities,” he adds. “Jim had a major effect on my career, my management style, how I deal with individuals.”

Saints play entertaining rugby, which proved literally true in the case of their new signing. The import was involved with the Clermont XV beaten in the Champions Cup in April when Tommy Freeman notched a hat-trick. The player liked what he saw to such an extent to reverse the trend of UK players joining Top 14 sides.

“A friend phoned me and stated: ‘We've found a fly-half from France who’s seeking a club,’” Dowson recalls. “I replied: ‘We don’t have money for a French fly-half. A different option will have to wait.’

‘He’s looking for experience, for the opportunity to test himself,’ my mate told me. That intrigued us. We had a conversation with him and his English was outstanding, he was eloquent, he had a funny side.

“We inquired: ‘What are you seeking from this?’ He answered to be coached, to be challenged, to be facing unfamiliar situations and beyond the French league. I was like: ‘Welcome aboard, you’re a fantastic individual.’ And he turned out to be. We’re fortunate to have him.”

Dowson says the emerging Pollock brings a particular enthusiasm. Has he coached an individual comparable? “Never,” Dowson responds. “All players are original but Henry is distinct and special in many ways. He’s fearless to be authentic.”

The player's spectacular score against the Irish side last season demonstrated his freakish skill, but some of his animated during matches actions have resulted in claims of cockiness.

“On occasion comes across as arrogant in his behavior, but he’s far from it,” Dowson clarifies. “Furthermore Henry’s not joking around all the time. In terms of strategy he has ideas – he’s a smart player. I think sometimes it’s portrayed that he’s merely a joker. But he’s bright and great to have in the squad.”

Hardly any directors of rugby would admit to sharing a close bond with a head coach, but that is how Dowson describes his connection with Vesty.

“We both have an inquisitiveness around different things,” he notes. “We have a book club. He wants to see all aspects, seeks to understand each detail, desires to try new experiences, and I feel like I’m the alike.

“We converse on many subjects away from the sport: movies, reading, concepts, culture. When we met Stade [Français] in the past season, the landmark was being done up, so we had a brief exploration.”

One more date in Gall is approaching: Northampton’s return with the Prem will be temporary because the European tournament intervenes soon. Pau, in the foothills of the mountain range, are up first on the coming weekend before the Bulls visit soon after.

“I refuse to be overconfident sufficiently to {