 This season saw the introduction of the controversial ELVs, although only 13 of the rules were used, as opposed to the 30 that were trialled in the Super 14.Northampton Saints gained promotion to the league this season by finishing top of the National Division One, taking the place of Leeds Carnegie who were relegated.In 2007–2008, Gloucester RFC finished top of the league but were beaten by Leicester Tigers in the semi-finals.