It is a top-of-the-table clash between the Saints and Chiefs at Franklin’s Gardens which could decide the destiny of the NL1 title. But with five matches still to play Mallinder knows that there is plenty of rugby still to be played.

“We’re not taking anything for granted,” he said. “We have worked hard all season to get into the position that we are in, but for us tomorrow afternoon will be just another game.

“We know it will be a tough and physical challenge. Exeter have been matching us result for result all season and tomorrow they have the opportunity to challenge us in person. They have a well drilled pack, hard running centres and two wings whose finishing quality is beyond question. That is a potent combination.

“It is a very important match and we have been completely focussed on it all week. We believe we have a game plan to win. The task for the team is to put that into action and control the match from the first whistle.”

Mallinder’s 25-man squad has been bolstered by the return of Scotland prop Euan Murray and lock James Cannon, fresh from his Grand Slam exploits with England Under-20.

There are a limited number of tickets left for tomorrow’s match. The Saints Ticket Office is open today (Good Friday) until 5pm and from 9am tomorrow morning. Call 01604 581000 or order online through the Saints website.

You can watch Jim Mallinder and Johnny Howard preview the match on TVNorthants.

Greg Garner will be the man in the middle tomorrow afternoon, refereeing the Saints for the second successive week.

NORTHAMPTON SAINTS SQUAD TO PLAY EXETER CHIEFS
National League One
Franklin’s Gardens; Saturday, March 22nd, 2008; kick-off 3pm
Backs:
Joe Ansbro, Jon Clarke, Paul Diggin, James Downey, Barry Everitt, Johnny Howard, Stephen Myler, Bruce Reihana, Mark Robinson, Carlos Spencer, Neil Starling.

Forwards:
Chris Budgen, James Cannon, Mark Easter, Darren Fox, Dylan Hartley, Ben Lewitt, Matt Lord, Euan Murray, Alex Rae, Paul Shields, Tom Smith, Barry Stewart, Soane Tonga’uiha, Paul Tupai.