Privileged to make history at Wembley
THERE’S not many sides that can boast trips to Twickenham and then Wembley for their first two Premiership games of the season, but we are certainly revelling being in that privileged position right now.
Saturday’s 18-14 victory over many people’s favourites, London Irish, in front of a near full-house at Twickenham was the perfect start for us – now sights are set on making history in the first ever rugby union match under the Wembley arc. The players will get a bit shock when they go to Newcastle next month!
I was delighted with the way we held out for victory with 13 men last weekend. It showed unity in a squad, which many claimed had been pieced together. Naturally, there were plenty of positives to take from the game but, despite the result, there were also a number of things in the second half that we needed to work in ahead of the Northampton Saints game this Saturday.
Make no mistake, Northampton are a great rugby side who will punish you if you play poorly against them. In Jim Mallender they have a fantastic coach and we are well aware that this will be a very tough game.
ABSOLUTE BARGAIN
The good news is that props Richard Skuse and Tom Mercey, who we were forced to play at Twickenham on Saturday despite both struggling with calf strains, are now full fit to add further strength to the squad.
Playing at an arena like Wembley requires different preparation, although I’m quite confident that the core of my squad have enough top-level experience to be able to handle the big occasion.
It’s vital the players do not get distracted, right from the moment they step out onto the pitch, and, much like it was at Twickenham on Saturday, focus will be the key word in our preparation.
With Britain’s Got Talent winners Diversity also performing, the £10 ticket offer is an absolute bargain and it will be a privilege to be a part of the entertainment. Hope to see you there.
• Brendan Venter is Director of Rugby at Saracens. Tickets for the Wembley showcase can be purchased through TicketMaster on 0844 8472482 or are available on the door.