Upset Henry Pollock 'targeted' in post-match clash as he is mocked in changing room celebrations

Wales Online

25-05-2025

Upset Henry Pollock 'targeted' in post-match clash as he is mocked in changing room celebrations
The Saints were narrowly edged out 28-20 by Bordeaux in a thrilling contest at the Principality Stadium
Northampton Saints star Henry Pollock
(Image: X.com )
Following a dramatic conclusion to the Champions Cup final, Northampton Saints' director of rugby Phil Dowson launched a scathing criticism of Bordeaux-Begles, accusing the French side of deliberately targeting Henry Pollock after the final whistle in Cardiff.
The Saints were narrowly edged out 28-20 by Bordeaux in a thrilling contest at the Principality Stadium, with the French club claiming their first-ever European title. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby.
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Pollock, 20, has enjoyed a meteoric rise this season, establishing himself as a key figure in the Saints squad and earning a call-up to the British and Irish Lions squad. However, his breakout campaign ended on a sour note after a heated post-match altercation.
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The incident appeared to occur shortly after the full-time whistle, with television cameras catching Pollock gesturing to his throat amid a scuffle involving Bordeaux's Pete Samu, Tevita Tatafu, and Jefferson Poirot. The confrontation reportedly stemmed from a clash between Saints captain Fraser Dingwall and Bordeaux fly-half Matthieu Jalibert.
While Dowson acknowledged Bordeaux's quality on the pitch, he did not hold back in condemning their conduct after the game.
'There was a fracas at the end, there was foul play involved,' said an incensed Dowson. 'I have been assured that the touch judge has seen it and will deal with it appropriately.'
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Dowson revealed that Pollock was visibly shaken by the incident, which he described as 'uncalled for and out of order.' The Saints boss suggested that his club may consider taking further action if match officials fail to address the matter.
'Henry Pollock was particularly upset by it,' Dowson added. 'He reacted, and the officials have told me they will deal with it. If they don't, we may have to look at it ourselves.'
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Fly-half Fin Smith, who played a key role in Northampton's campaign, echoed Dowson's concerns and suggested Pollock had been specifically targeted by Bordeaux players during and after the match. 'They were after him,' Smith said. 'I don't think they liked him.'
Describing the intensity of the moment, Smith added: 'I remember they all sort of charged at him and were trying to get hold of him. I am surprised if you have just won a European Cup, the first thing you want to do is start a fight with a 20-year-old. I felt that was interesting.'
Indeed, the Bordeaux team seemed to take particular pleasure from besting Pollock, with pictures emerging of the players mocking the Saints star, copying his trademark fingers-on-the-neck celebration, in the changing room after the match.
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Despite the controversy, the game itself was a high-octane affair. Bordeaux displayed clinical finishing, with tries from Damian Penaud, Adam Coleman, and Cyril Cazeaux proving decisive.
Northampton, seeking a first Champions Cup crown in 25 years, were hit early by injuries to backs George Furbank and James Ramm, but they refused to fold. Flanker Alex Coles scored twice, showcasing the Saints' attacking prowess and resilience.
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Smith contributed two conversions and two penalties, keeping his side within striking distance, but Bordeaux's greater efficiency in key moments ultimately made the difference.
Jalibert and captain Maxime Lucu each added penalties for Bordeaux, whose triumph marked the fifth consecutive year a French club has lifted the Champions Cup.
The match, full of drama and intensity, was worthy of the occasion, but the post-match altercation has cast a shadow over what should have been a celebration of European rugby's finest.
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Northampton's attention may now turn to reviewing footage of the incident and potentially lodging a citing complaint, as the fallout from Cardiff continues to unfold.