As the Northampton Saints prepare for the climactic showdown of the PREM Rugby Final at Twickenham, their star flanker, Josh Kemeny, shares his anticipation and reflections on a season that has seen his team rise to the occasion. The Australian, who joined the Saints before the 2024/25 season, has become a pivotal figure on the blindside, contributing significantly to their journey to the finals.
Kemeny, who played a key role in the Saints' 45-31 semi-final triumph over Leicester Tigers, might not have scored tries in that particular game, but his overall performance this season has been formidable. His prowess in line-outs and as a carrier was particularly noticeable in the semi-final, helping his team secure their spot in the final against Exeter.
"All these games are the reason why I came here and it's my first time going into Twickenham so I'm excited,"
Twickenham is a venue steeped in rugby history, and for Kemeny, the upcoming final represents not just another match, but a milestone in his career. "Everyone knows Twickenham and I couldn't be more excited to be honest," he expressed. The Australian is keen on clinching his first piece of silverware with the Saints, a testament to his dedication and hard work since moving to England.
The semi-final against Leicester was nothing short of intense, described by Kemeny as a physical and fast-paced encounter that felt longer than its actual duration. "Especially a team like Leicester, we saw the performance they put out against us last time and they did it for 80 minutes so we knew what they were going to come with. Respect to them," he acknowledged, highlighting the formidable challenge posed by their opponents.
The game was tightly contested, with the lead changing hands and neither team backing down. "I'm pretty sure it was a one-score game for most of it. They were knocking on the door the whole time, and we were too, so we're really pleased to come out on top," Kemeny added, underscoring the competitive nature of the match.
Kemeny also touched on the tactical aspects that the Saints improved on, which included enhancing their breakdown and set-piece, "the boring stuff that allows us to play the way we play," as he put it. These adjustments were crucial in their victory and will be vital as they head into the final.
As the final approaches, the excitement within the team is palpable, fueled by the support of their home crowd in previous games. Kemeny remarked, "I played in some decent games since being here, but these ones at home are my favorite." The backing of the home fans has evidently been a significant boost, and as they prepare for the final, the Saints are undoubtedly hoping to carry that momentum into Twickenham.
The stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the PREM Rugby season, with Northampton Saints facing off against Exeter Chiefs. Both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout the season, setting the scene for a memorable encounter at the revered Twickenham Stadium.