Tommy Freeman dazzles Northampton Saints to stunning victory over Bath in the Premiership at Franklin’s Gardens

Tommy Freeman ended the year in spectacular fashion, slicing through Bath’s defence like it wasn’t there to score a sensational hat-trick for Northampton Saints.

The 41-21 victory not only showcased Freeman’s brilliance but also handed Bath their first home league defeat since October 2024.

Despite missing several England stars, Freeman led Phil Dowson’s side with pace, skill, and sheer confidence, marking Northampton out as genuine contenders for the 2026 PREM Rugby title.

For Freeman personally, it was a perfect conclusion to an outstanding year.

A Record-Breaking 2025 for Freeman

Last year, Freeman was pivotal for England, helping the national team win 11 of 12 Tests.

He also featured in all three Lions Tests during their triumphant tour of Australia and played a key role in Northampton’s Champions Cup run, which saw them reach the final.

“I want to be involved with the England setup and be at the top of the top,” Freeman told Daily Mail Sport.

“Hopefully I can set some more records, whatever that looks like. We have a great group with England.

We’ve played together a long time, so it’s exciting to see what’s next.”

Eyes on the Six Nations

With Steve Borthwick’s England fresh off a clean sweep in the autumn internationals—their first since 2017—the focus now turns to the 2026 Six Nations.

Freeman, who became the first Englishman to score in all five rounds of last year’s championship, is ready to take on the next international challenge, starting at home against Wales.

Before that, though, Northampton’s immediate attention is on club duty, facing a struggling Harlequins this Saturday.

Depth and Dominance at Northampton

Following their 2024 PREM title, Northampton lost key players Courtney Lawes and Lewis Ludlam, but Dowson has rebuilt a squad with impressive depth.

The Bath demolition, achieved without England aces Alex Mitchell, Fin Smith, Fraser Dingwall, Alex Coles, and George Furbank, showed just how strong the Saints have become—with Freeman at the heart of it.

“Freeman is world-class,” Dowson said. “There’s no other way of saying it.

His size and ability make him one of the best in Britain, both defensively and offensively.

His dominance in the air is second to none.”

Freeman Balances Wing and Centre Duties

Freeman’s versatility has been a major asset. Starting the autumn campaign at outside centre, he returned to his preferred wing position before an injury.

Despite the positional shifts, he remains a fixture in Borthwick’s first-choice XV.

“It’s still a challenge moving between the back three and midfield,” Freeman said. “There’s a lot to learn, but I’m enjoying it.

Maybe I’ll get to 10 one day! I can cover both positions, which helps Northampton and England.”

Against Bath, Freeman excelled in midfield and will start there again versus Harlequins, joining returning captain Dingwall.

Harlequins Struggling as Northampton Leads the Pack

While Northampton sits comfortably at the top of the league, Harlequins have had a nightmare run.

They conceded 83 points over Christmas, losing heavily to Bristol and Sale, leaving them eighth in the table with just two wins from eight games.

Coach Jason Gilmore admitted their play-off hopes are over.

Dowson, however, remains cautious. “Quins are very dangerous, especially after a tough couple of weeks.

Momentum can switch quickly. We’re aware and preparing accordingly.”

Confidence Boosted by Youth and Depth

Northampton’s younger players have thrived under pressure, gaining valuable experience last season.

With key stars returning from breaks, including George Hendy at full-back and the Mitchell-Smith half-back pairing, the Saints are in prime shape.

Hendy, a former England U20s standout, could even make the Six Nations squad if he continues his form.

Harlequins, meanwhile, are weakened without England prop Fin Baxter and with Wales fly-half Jarrod Evans playing inside centre, putting them at a further disadvantage.

Another Statement Win on the Horizon

If Northampton continues the form displayed against Bath, Freeman and the Saints could inflict another heavy defeat on Harlequins this weekend.

With momentum, depth, and their star players in sync, Dowson’s side is sending a clear message: they are a serious force in the 2026 PREM Rugby season.

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