| Browne’s crucial clash BY LARRY COONEY
 Bristol what we
can do. The backs, after a lean period, showed a bit of inventiveness
even though we haven’t been helped by injuries. We have increased
forward power and the backs have hit a bit of form.”
Part of that forward power is provided by the huge presence of Damien
Browne who has become a regular since moving to Franklin’s Gardens
in September 2004.
After ending his season with Parker Pen Chall-enge Cup semi-finalists
Connacht former Saints and Ulster head coach Alan Solomons succeeded in
luring Browne to Premiership rugby.
Browne began playing rugby at the tender age of 11 and was soon snapped
up by Connacht at just 17.
His burgeoning talents were noticed by Ireland’s representative
sides and he has played for both Ireland U-21s and U-19s.
A single handicap golfer, Browne puts his 6ft 5ins height down to a great-uncle
who is believed to have stood at 7ft 2ins tall.
Since arriving at Frank-lin’s Gardens, Browne has also put his
bulk to good use to create some gaps for the backs to sprint through.
He made 10 starts and nine replacement appearances for Saints last season
and has played in virtually every game this season partly due to the injuries
suffered by Selborne Boome and James Percival.
Browne has flourished under the new coaching regime of Pountney and Grayson
and has been calling the lineouts in recent games.
But Browne admitted that it was not all that easy in the beginning.
He said: “I’m well settled in here now at Franklin’s
Gardens and hope to continue my current run in the team. I am fortunate
so far in avoiding injury unlike last season
“I am now really beginning to enjoy my rugby. I believe we have
an excellent chance of doing well in the European Challenge Cup but once
again our Premiership form is very erratic.”
Browne admitted the Leeds game was not one Northampton could afford
to lose if they hoped to pull away from the relegation zone.
He said: “After such a great season winning the Powergen Cup Leeds
Tykes poor form in the Premiership has been surprising.
“However as they showed over the Christmas period they are capable
of pulling off some good results with their victory over Leicester Tigers.
“We have therefore got to be on our guard and avoid any slip-ups.”
Browne therefore looks set to be a key figure in helping Northampton
avoid yet another season fighting relegation.
Verdict: Home win.
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