Mean defence, flawless attack: how Saracens reclaimed Premier 15s crown

When Harlequins lifted the Premier 15s trophy a year ago, some believed a new dawn had risen as Saracens’ dominance appeared to be over. But Sarries knew the sun hadn’t set on their title-winning moments and they reclaimed the league championship on Friday afternoon, their third in four finals.

Sarries, favourites heading into the match, were able to silence the majority of attacking questions posed by Exeter, who are only in their second season as a team. It wasn’t just Saracens’ defence that was on the money, either. Their attack was flawless, particularly through the player of the match, Marlie Packer, and the fly-half Holly Aitchison. The pair inspired another famous Sarries victory that was more impressive considering they were playing out of their preferred positions.

Aitchison, who is usually found at centre but was at 10 for the injured Zoe Harrison, had a near-perfect game. Exeter targeted her with high balls, always sending it down the England international’s channel, but the 24-year-old did not knock on once. Her territorial kicks were key in pushing her side forward. Saracens were in their first attack and she sent the ball high, gaining valuable metres; the move eventually ended in the first try of the final, scored by Packer.

The Saracens head coach, Alex Austerberry, was full of praise for his No 10. “She is an unbelievably gifted player,” he said. “She is a threat ball in hand, great feet and pass distribution. She commands the game, her kicking game I thought was outstanding. I get to see her day-in, day-out and I know what she’s capable of. To perform at the highest of levels, just where her game can get to is truly special. With the World Cup coming up and a home World Cup [in 2025], with performances