Castres 21-16 Northampton Saints

Northampton Saints have slipped to a 21-16 defeat away to Castres in the second round of the Heineken Cup.

The result puts the Saints in a difficult position to ensure automatic qualification from the group.

Paul Bonnefond opened the scoring for the French side with a try after seven minutes.

Romain Teulet and Steven Myler added to the scoreline with an exchange of penalties to put the half-time score at 13-6.

Northampton's Brian Mujati was given a yellow card early in the second half and Castres took full advantage, adding another try through captain Antoine Classen.

George Pisi pulled the Saints back within reach with a score before Castres re-established their lead through a drop goal.

Saints pushed to get something out of the game and although Stephen Myler secured a bonus point with a penalty, Northampton could not find a winning try.