All Blacks breakout star believes England win can ‘galvanise’ team as ‘mentor’ Ardie Savea praised
All Blacks flanker Wallace Sititi after win over England.
All Blacks sensation Wallace Sititi believes their impressive 24-22 win over England at Allianz Stadium can “galvanise” the team on their end-of-year tour.
The 22-year-old picked up the player of the match award after his efforts in the dramatic triumph as he impressed on both sides of the ball.
New Zealand‘s result comes on the back of victory over Japan and stands them in good stead going into a difficult clash with Ireland in Dublin on Friday night.
Step in the right direction
But with Sititi in this kind of form they will fear no one and the Chiefs star is hopeful their result at Twickenham gives them a springboard against the Irish.
“It’s the sort of result that can really galvanise us, for sure,” he said.
“We’re trying to build something for ourselves we can be proud of. That was one step in the right direction. We’ll be happy with parts of that Test and take the win.”
He added on the game: “I really enjoyed it. The lads were feeling it, especially in that second half, but we just managed to get it done.
“It was definitely one of the most dramatic finishes in my career. A first win here at Twickenham… sorry, the Allianz Stadium… so it meant a lot and we were happy with that one.
“I was definitely really nervous before the start. I’m someone who gets really nervous before games. It was about keeping the game simple and enjoying it.”
Sititi starred at number eight during the recent Super Rugby Pacific campaign but looks right at home on the blindside flank as he dovetails nicely with Ardie Savea.
The All Blacks stalwart has been full of praise for the youngster and recently said that Sititi reminds him of himself, which is glowing praise for the Chiefs man.
“There’s only going to be one Ardie. No-one can be who he is or do what he does,” he said of his senior back-row colleague.
“He’s a beast in his own run and a good man and a good brother. So it means a lot to me that he said that.
“He’s been a mentor for me, taken me under his wing and guided me through this journey and I’m truly grateful for what he’s done for me.”
Focussed on his preparations
Having such experienced voices in his ear will no doubt benefit Sititi ahead of the Ireland Test, which of course is a repeat of the World Cup quarter-final.
Despite the magnitude of the internationals he is currently involved in, it is clear that Sititi is taking it all in his stride as he looks forward to the challenge.
“It’s about being grateful for whatever happens, making sure I get my prep right throughout the week and whatever happens at the weekend I am ready for it,” he said.
