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New role for hat-trick man Tommy Freeman as Saints visit Bear country

Northampton, who are without a win at Ashton Gate in their last five outings there, have made two changes to their starting XV vs Bristol.

Rugby Pass

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 11:26 AM

Key Things to Know

Northampton Saints selected Tommy Freeman to start at full-back for Saturday's match against Bristol Bears.
Ollie Sleightholme returns to Northampton's wing, while Josh Taylor earns his first Premiership start in the back row.
Bristol Bears made one forced change to their starting lineup, with Jake Woolmore replacing the injured Ellis Genge.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tommy Freeman will shift to full-back for Northampton Saints' Gallagher Premiership encounter against Bristol Bears on Saturday, replacing James Pater at No. 15. The adjustment allows director of rugby Phil Dowson to bring wing Ollie Sleightholme into the starting lineup, with George Hendy holding his spot on the opposite wing.

Flanker Josh Taylor also makes his first league start in the back row alongside Josh Kemeny and Henry Pollock. Meanwhile, Bristol Bears enter the Ashton Gate fixture with an unchanged backline, though prop Jake Woolmore replaces the injured Ellis Genge in the front row.

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New role for hat-trick man Tommy Freeman as Saints visit Bear country

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