Austerberry hails mentality after Loughborough triumph


Head Coach Alex Austerberry said the comeback victory over Loughborough Lightning on Saturday was a credit to the mentality in the group.
After the opening round defeat to Worcester in the Allianz Cup Sarries knew that they needed a victory to keep alive their hopes of progressing, and that’s exactly what they got as they overturned a 12-0 half time deficit to win 22-12.
“There were positives to the first half, we defended pretty well but it was tough with that wind and to be 12-0 down at half time it’s a long way back, especially for a young and inexperienced side.” Said Austerberry.
He continued: “At half time our experienced bodies spoke really well about what it means to be part of this group and everyone stood up in the second half. We got back in to the game and we’re really proud of that win, it’s testament to the character in our squad.”
With so many internationals away it was always going to be a testing time for Sarries, but Austerberry is delighted with what he has seen so far.
“Game time is essential to their growth. Training is good but nothing beats a game, that’s when you find out a lot about players. I thought Jodie backed up a good performance last week, Lucy, Cara and Coreen all stepped up as did the rest of the group, and the great thing now is all players are driving standards and knocking on the door of the league group.”
The Women in Black are back at StoneX this Sunday when they welcome Sale for the next round of the cup, and the Head Coach will now head in to the week with a spring in his step.
“We’ve had to learn quickly, it’s effectively knockout rugby and we got some harsh lessons against Worcester but fixed it today so we’re in a better place for next week and very excited for it.”
His final praises were left for the try-scoring Rocky Clark, who showed all of her experience to help the side overturn the 12-point deficit.
“She was superb, her carries and tackles but it doesn’t surprise me. She knows where the try-line is and you can’t measure what she brings to the group.”
News
See all newsINJURY UPDATE | September 2023
Here's an update on the current squad as we head towards the start of the Gallagher Premiership season. Alec Clarey Is back in training after returning from a neck injury, and is due to return to the matchday squad imminently. Andy Christie Had successful surgery on a broken arm and will be back in training […]
Travel Information | England Women vs Canada Women
We're looking forward to welcoming you to StoneX Stadium tomorrow for the women's international between England and Canada. Here's all the information you need before you make your way to the stadium. PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO TRAIN SERVICE TO MILL HILL BROADWAY (THAMESLINK) DUE TO ASLEF STRIKE ACTION. Getting to StoneX Stadium is quick […]
TEAM NEWS | Harlequins v Saracens Men (PRC - Rd 4)
Tom Woolstencroft says there is no better game to continue building momentum as Saracens Men make the journey to The Twickenham Stoop to take on Harlequins in the next round of The Premiership Rugby Cup on Sunday. The Men in Black head across London to face their local rivals for the first derby of the […]