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This English town is hardly the most tropical destination on the planet, but its squad provides an abundance of excitement and passion.

In a town renowned for shoe production, you might expect punting to be the Northampton's modus operandi. But under the director of rugby Phil Dowson, the side in their distinctive colors prefer to retain possession.

Even though representing a typically British community, they exhibit a flair synonymous with the best French exponents of champagne rugby.

From the time Dowson and fellow coach Sam Vesty stepped up in 2022, Northampton have secured the domestic league and advanced far in the Champions Cup – defeated by Bordeaux-Bègles in the ultimate match and knocked out by Leinster in a penultimate round before that.

They currently top the league standings after four wins and a draw and travel to Ashton Gate on the weekend as the only unbeaten side, seeking a maiden victory at their opponent's ground since 2021.

It would be natural to think Dowson, who featured in 262 top-flight fixtures for various teams combined, always planned to be a manager.

“When I played, I hadn't given it much thought,” he states. “However as you get older, you understand how much you enjoy the sport, and what the everyday life entails. I worked briefly at a financial institution doing work experience. You make the journey a few times, and it was tough – you grasp what you possess and lack.”

Talks with former mentors culminated in a job at Northampton. Jump ahead eight years and Dowson manages a roster increasingly filled with global stars: prominent figures started for the Red Rose facing the the Kiwis two weeks ago.

The young flanker also had a major effect off the bench in the national team's successful series while the number ten, in time, will inherit the No 10 jersey.

Is the emergence of this remarkable cohort because of the Saints’ culture, or is it fortune?

“It's a combination of the two,” states Dowson. “My thanks go to the former director of rugby, 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 factors they are so united and so skilled.”

Dowson also mentions Jim Mallinder, another predecessor at their stadium, as a major influence. “I’ve been fortunate to be guided by really interesting individuals,” he notes. “Mallinder had a major effect on my career, my training methods, how I interact with people.”

Saints play attractive the game, which became obvious in the instance of Anthony Belleau. The Gallic player was a member of the opposing team beaten in the continental tournament in last season when the winger scored a three tries. The player liked what he saw to such an extent to buck the pattern of UK players joining Top 14 sides.

“A mate called me and stated: ‘There’s a fly-half from France who’s looking for a team,’” Dowson explains. “I replied: ‘We don’t have budget for a overseas star. A different option will have to wait.’

‘He desires a fresh start, for the chance to prove his worth,’ my friend told me. That intrigued us. We had a conversation with him and his communication was excellent, he was articulate, he had a witty personality.

“We inquired: ‘What are you seeking from this?’ He answered to be trained, to be challenged, to be facing unfamiliar situations and beyond the domestic competition. I was saying: ‘Join us, you’re a legend of a man.’ And he proved to be. We’re fortunate to have him.”

Dowson says the young Henry Pollock brings a particular enthusiasm. Has he coached a player similar? “Not really,” Dowson responds. “All players are unique but he is different and unique in numerous aspects. He’s unafraid to be who he is.”

The player's sensational score against their opponents last season showcased his exceptional ability, but various his expressive during matches antics have brought claims of overconfidence.

“On occasion comes across as cocky in his behavior, but he’s the opposite,” Dowson says. “Plus he's not taking the piss constantly. Game-wise he has ideas – he’s a smart player. I feel sometimes it’s shown that he’s only a character. But he’s bright and good fun within the team.”

Not many coaches would claim to have having a bromance with a head coach, but that is how Dowson frames his connection with his co-coach.

“Sam and I share an interest around different things,” he notes. “We run a book club. He desires to explore everything, seeks to understand each detail, aims to encounter different things, and I believe I’m the same.

“We discuss numerous things beyond the game: films, reading, thoughts, creativity. When we played Stade [Français] previously, Notre-Dame was undergoing restoration, so we had a brief exploration.”

One more date in the French nation is approaching: The Saints' return with the English competition will be temporary because the Champions Cup takes over soon. Pau, in the foothills of the border region, are the initial challenge on the coming weekend before the Bulls arrive at the following weekend.

“I won't be arrogant to the extent to {