Northampton Saints open title defence with 59-26 win over Newcastle Red Bulls

Northampton Saints began their Premiership title defence with a 59-26 home win over Newcastle Red Bulls at Franklin's Gardens.

• James Pater and Tommy Freeman each scored hat-tricks in Northampton's nine-try victory.
• Newcastle scored four tries through Christian Wade (2), Cam Jordan and Werner Kok, earning a losing bonus point.
• Newcastle's Harrison Obatoyinbo and Pouri Rakete-Stones received yellow cards for a trip and a no-hands tackle.
• Henry Pollock played after signing a new contract extension reportedly worth £400,000.