Louie Johnson made his full debut for Saracens in their Gallagher Premier-ship game at Exeter Chiefs on Saturday, and said he was thrilled by the experience.
Johnson, 21, is in his first season at Saracens having made the switch from Newcastle Falcons where he had graduated from their academy to the first XV.
The former Penrith Queen Elizabeth Grammar School student, from Clifton, was handed his first start at fly half for Saracens’ trip to Exeter having been ruled out of action for a lengthy spell earlier in the season due to a bicep tear. Exeter triumphed 31-22 but those in the youthful Saracens squad showed fight and spirit.
And, speaking to Herald this week, Johnson said: “I was thrilled to be able to make my debut. It’s something I’ve been working hard towards. I would describe my feeling as nervous excitement once selection was confirmed.
“But the nerves quickly passed when the training week commenced and I felt comfortable in the role.
“We knew we were coming up against a strong Exeter team and we were missing all our England internationals so we had a pretty simple game plan that we stuck to well.
“We felt in control and we were winning at the 60-minute mark. A few things didn’t go our way after that point and the scoreline flattened them.”
Saracens are currently fifth in the Premiership table, with six wins and 34 points from their 11 games so far.
“The season has had a few mixed results but we are in and around the top four and into the next round of Europe so we’re positive and have lots to play for,” said Johnson.
“I’ve loved my move to Saracens. It’s everything I had hoped it would be. It’s full of great people going after the same goal and enjoying it while we do it.”
Johnson is sponsored by the Saracens Supporters’ Association (SSA), who expressed their delight after news of his start at Exeter was confirmed last week.
“As focused and philosophical a young man as Louie is, he has risen above the disappointment of having to overcome a bad bicep injury, sustained in training, that cost him a number of potential appearances,” said an SSA spokesman. “Sincere congratulations to Louie from the SSA. An extremely nice man with a great attitude.”
Johnson said in response: “The sponsorship supporters have been very welcoming to me and I’m grateful to be their sponsored player. I’ve met so many lovely people through the association and I felt part of the family pretty quickly.”
Of his hopes for the remainder of this season, he added: “I’m hopeful to get the next few games and push Saracens to win those matches. If I can do that then I feel like the rest of the season will look good for the team and me personally.
“I’m grateful for all the messages and support from friends and family back home up in Penrith. I appreciate it massively and love coming back and seeing people when I do.”
