# Phil Dowson defends rugby attack after Saints and Bath points fest

> Phil Dowson says rugby isn't soft despite Saints and Bath scoring 18 tries in 119-point match.
- Title: Phil Dowson defends rugby attack after Saints and Bath points…
- Summary: Phil Dowson says rugby isn't soft despite Saints and Bath scoring 18 tries in 119-point match. Phil Dowson rejects claims rugby has gone soft after…
- Keywords: phil dowson, northampton saints, bath, premiership, rugby, 18 tries, 71-48, 119 points, sports, Phil, Dowson, defends
- Source: The Rugby Paper — https://therugbypaper.co.uk/all/domestic-club-rugby-union/english-premiership/494768/big-guns-in-18-try-shoot-out
- Author: Adam Hathaway
- Published: 2026-10-11T03:45:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: phil dowson, northampton saints, bath, premiership, rugby, 18 tries, 71-48, 119 points, sports
## Phil Dowson defends rugby attack
Northampton Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson denied rugby has gone soft after his side and Bath scored 18 tries in a 119-point match.
## Premiership points fest
The 71-48 victory over Bath produced 18 tries and the second-highest aggregate in Prem history.
## Recent high scores
Northampton beat Bristol Bears 94-33 in May, the Prem’s biggest aggregate.
## Key takeaway

Phil Dowson rejects claims rugby has gone soft after Northampton Saints beat Bath 71-48 with 18 tries in a 119-point game.