Haywood scoops Saints’ player of the month prize

It was the fourth time the hooker had been nominated for a monthly prize this season, and he has finally claimed it, seeing off Lee Dickson and Sam Dickinson in the process.

March was a mixed month for Saints, with Haywood playing his part in one win, one draw and one defeat.

The talented hooker made his 100th Northampton appearance in the process, which is a sizeable achievement for a 23-year-old.

Haywood, a Saints Academy graduate, has a lineout success rate of 91 per cent, which is the highest of any player to throw in more than 100 times.

And director of rugby Jim Mallinder hailed his player’s reliability.

“Mike has been excellent for us this season,” Mallinder said.

“He has continued to develop his game and the hard work he puts in week in week out shows in how consistent his performances have been, particularly in the set-piece.

“To also reach a century of appearances at such a young age is a brilliant achievement and illustrates that he is now an important member of our squad.”