But although they have endured some struggles in Europe, the Scotstoun Stadium outfit currently occupy second spot in the RaboDirect PRO12 standings.
Townsend has already ruled out the possibility of catching high-fliers Ulster, who are 11 points ahead of the Warriors after just 13 games.
But with his side up against the Saints at home this Saturday, Townsend is targeting a victory in their European finale to take some form into the remainder of their RaboDirect PRO12 campaign.
"With Ulster sitting 11 points clear, realistically the other teams are all playing for the three remaining play-off places," Townsend told the Glasgow Evening Times.
"What's great for us is that we are sitting second, albeit by one point, and if we can stay there we will gain a home advantage in the play-offs.
"But all our focus must be on getting the win over Northampton on Saturday.
"We have not done ourselves justice results-wise in the Heineken Cup and we want to do something about that at home this weekend.
"Our performances have been excellent at times in this campaign, starting with the opening half an hour against Northampton back in October.
"The problem is that we haven't managed to put in a full 80-minute performance.
"The players deserve a win for their efforts, but it will take an excellent performance to beat a Northampton side that has hit some form and are looking to qualify for the quarter-finals.
"But I believe we are capable of it, and of providing ourselves with a winning platform to go back into the PRO12 against Zebre on February 10."
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