Madigan wary of Northampton backlash

Editor

Leinster pivot Ian Madigan expects a backlash from Northampton when they meet in their Heineken Cup clash in Dublin this weekend.

Leinster fly-half Ian Madigan expects a backlash from Northampton when the sides meet in their Heineken Cup clash in Dublin this weekend.

The Irish province served a warning of their intent in the competition when they scored six tries in their 40-7 victory over the Saints at Franklin's Gardens last weekend.

The result puts Leinster in pole position in the Pool One standings but Madigan insists that Leinster will not be taking the Saints lightly in Dublin.

“It was a big statement,” Madigan told the Irish Independent.

“To go away in the Heineken Cup and pick up five points is definitely going to send out a message to Europe.

“At the same time, I thought things went our way in the game.

“On the back of that our defence was good and Northampton had to chase the game from an early stage. It led to more opportunities for ourselves but we are under no illusions that Northampton are a really good side.

“They're a side that can easily bounce back. They did it last year when Ulster beat them over at Franklin's Gardens and they came back and won the return fixture. They're a very proud club, a lot of proud supporters so we're expecting a big backlash this week.”