James Sweetland argues that Farrell doesn’t get the respect he deserves as he prepares to maneuver to France
It wasn’t essentially the most glamorous day trip. It’s October 2008, I’m sat within the concrete bowl of Vicarage Street, watching Saracens face Scarlets within the EDF Vitality Cup. It’s raining – lots. The stand reverse’s closed. And my crew, Saracens, slip to a nine-point defeat.
And but, it was a particular recreation. As a result of, with ten minutes left, a 17-year-old comes on for his debut. His identify? Owen Farrell. You may’ve heard of him.
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During the last 16 years, I’ve seen him lead Saracens to European titles and drag us from salary-cap relegation all the best way again to a different Premiership trophy. I’ve watched him wink on the All Blacks earlier than that astonishing 2019 World Cup semi-final and drive England to the brink of one other last 4 years later.
I’ve cherished the massive hits, the relentless desperation to win, the management, the dedication, the power that makes a test-match animal. I’ve watched him mastermind kick-chase victories and lead a brand new period of swashbuckling, offloading, all-court Saracens.
And I’ve been appalled to observe him endure the very worst of recent rugby. Nameless abuse, booing, the irrational hatred sure gamers can’t appear to flee.
So sure, I’ll admit it, I’m biased. I feel the haters are plain improper. I really like Owen Farrell – and I feel you must too.
If you happen to gained’t take my phrase for it, take a look at the statistics. 1,271 check factors. 112 England caps. Three Lions excursions. Three Six Nations titles, together with one Grand Slam. Three European titles. Over 250 Saracens caps and a couple of,693 factors throughout the Premiership and Europe.
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Possibly that’s all simply luck, so ignore the statistics and take a look at these as an alternative. “An actual standout chief…” “Anybody who appreciates a recreation of rugby appreciates the skillset of this man.” “Farrell’s a improbable participant who, in contrast to Wilkinson, maybe doesn’t get the reward he deserves.” “One of many uncommon characters and uncommon leaders that the sport wants.” The phrases of Paul O’Connell, Jamie Roberts, Sir Clive Woodward and Dan Carter.
Possibly you don’t care about that both. Possibly you assume, nice participant, however I simply don’t like this man I’ve by no means met. Effectively, after the 2021 Lions tour, Eire centre Bundee Aki mentioned: “Actually I’ve learnt a lot off (Farrell), I didn’t assume I’d get together with him so effectively.” Hamish Watson known as him a “actually refreshingly good lad.” Stuart Hogg mentioned a lot the identical.
Owen Farrell leads Saracens out together with his youngsters at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for The Showdown in opposition to Harlequins (Getty Pictures)
Possibly simply take within the emotion that surrounded him getting his 250th Sarries jersey, if you happen to’re nonetheless not satisfied.
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In March, on this magnificently topsy-turvy Premiership season, I went to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for ‘the Showdown’. Quins v Sarries, the Barbie versus Oppenheimer of English rugby. And a a lot better ambiance than Vicarage Street in 2008.
For Quins followers, it’s most likely the worst match you’ve been to in a protracted whereas. You most likely left considering: ‘I hate Saracens. I can’t wait to see the again of Owen Farrell – and might he take Elliot Daly with him?’ I perceive that.
However I feel even essentially the most ardent Quins fan ought to neglect the Showdown. Ignore the offended voices, those that mentioned Farrell was solely picked due to Dad – after which each single coach who’s ever had the possibility.
Neglect the social media abuse, the booing – the behaviour that’s pushed one in every of England’s best gamers out of Take a look at rugby, prefer it pushed Wayne Barnes and Tom Foley out of refereeing.
As an alternative, do what I’ll do when Danny Care lastly retires, aged 45. Rejoice a superb Take a look at participant and a splendidly proficient, infuriating enemy of your home crew. Take a second, pause, replicate, bear in mind what our recreation needs to be all about. And cheer – sure, cheer – for Owen Farrell.
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