The bells rang out for Anthony Belleau this summer – now the French fly-half is aiming to make the right sounds once more in season two at Northampton Saints.
Belleau’s maiden campaign in Black, Green and Gold ended with him winning a Gallagher PREM title, playing ten times in the league and contributing 66 points along the way.
His off-season was equally sparkling as he returned to his homeland and married his partner Clara in Provence.
“It was the best weekend of my life so far,” said the 30-year-old. “It was really great and I did enjoy it a lot with my wife, so it was good.”
Belleau played his first minutes of the season in Friday night’s 93-10 victory over Black Lion, arriving from the bench in the second half, scoring a try and maintaining the levels set by starting fly-half Fin Smith. The experienced pair will battle it out for the pivotal position with the rising talents of Hugh Shields, once more, and Belleau is up for the challenge.
“It’s not about being a good impact player, it’s about trying to be consistent every time you play, and that’s going to be the challenge after the first season with Saints. I’m still enjoying England and now I’m a married man, so I’m happier than ever.
“I’m excited about this new season. We’ve got new challenges, new faces, but the same ambition.”
Saints were ruthless on Friday night, crossing the line 15 times to fine-tune themselves for the visit of Newcastle Red Bulls on Friday evening as they commence the defence of their Gallagher PREM title in front of their own supporters.
Belleau said: “It was good to get some game time before the first game in the PREM on Friday.
“I was very happy to be back at Franklin’s Gardens, playing at home in front of our fans against a Georgian team who were very physical. It was a good last pre-season game for us.
“I can’t wait to start the PREM now, especially Friday night at home against Newcastle, who are going to have a lot of ambition this season.
“It’s going to be a good first game of the season.”