Leicester Tigers finish fourth with win over Northampton Saints

Leicester Tigers have secured a fourth-placed finish in the Aviva Premiership table by beating defending champions Northampton Saints in their last game of the campaign.

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Jordan Crane scored the only try in the opening 40 minutes for the home side, but three penalties from James Wilson ensured that Northampton were in front at half time.

Freddie Burns edged Leicester ahead at the start of the second half as try-scoring opportunities continued to be scarce in the cagey tie.

Burns extended their lead further with another kick before Niall Morris leapt over in the corner to put the Tigers 10 points ahead.

Tom Stephenson gave Saints some late hope when he forced his way over with six minutes remaining, but the hosts were able to hold on for a 22-14 win.

With Northampton having already guaranteed top spot ahead of kickoff, the result sets up a playoff semi-final with Bath for Leicester, while the Saints will face Saracens.