Saracens Believe Farrell’s Composure Can Propel Them to Success
Farrell’s Impressive Return
Owen Farrell, the 32-year-old fly-half for Saracens, made an impressive return to competitive action in Saracens’ resounding 52-7 Gallagher Premiership victory over Harlequins on Saturday. Farrell, who had sat out the Guinness Six Nations to prioritize his mental health, produced a standout all-round individual performance as Quins were swept aside at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, marking his 250th club appearance.
“His performance on Saturday was high level,” said Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall. “He passed the ball beautifully, managed the game well, and just looked in control of everything. He had that lovely mix of being calm and cool, but also very physical and intense when needed. That’s always a sign of a very good player.”
Crucial Matches Ahead
Saracens currently sit third in the table, just three points behind leaders Northampton, ahead of their meeting at Franklin’s Gardens on Friday night. With a crucial Champions Cup last-16 fixture away at Bordeaux also on the horizon, McCall knows he will need Farrell and his other key players fully focused to tackle the challenges ahead.
McCall is aware Saracens will need a strong collective effort when they face Saints and is not reading too much into their 52-21 loss at Bristol last week.
“I don’t think anyone should be fooled by what happened on Friday night. Those kinds of things can happen – it has happened to us a couple of times this year. They are a good all-round team and have taken their defense to a whole new level this year.”
Injury Concerns
Saracens may again be without winger Rotimi Segun due to an Achilles problem, while Maro Itoje continues to be assessed on a knee issue sustained while on England duty, so may be rested. McCall also confirmed the club had reviewed an incident during the Quins game when the television match official appeared to ignore possible foul play highlighted by a pundit, but looked to draw a line under the matter.
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