Wilson happy to play for territory
NEWCASTLE and Saracens are on a pioneering mission in Philadelphia tonight to promote rugby union – and the Premiership in particular – but curious Americans have been cautioned not to expect too much in the way of razzamatazz.
Saracens are hard-headed pragmatists to the core, capable of turning on the style when it suits them but more content to put opponents through the mincer.
Newcastle, enjoying their best start to a season for 13 years, have discovered an appetite for victory in whatever form it comes. If their opening-night win over Worcester had its Las Vegas moments, the follow-up triumph at Sale last week was a Nevada desert in entertainment terms.
For Newcastle flanker Mark Wilson, who made his England debut on the same side of the Atlantic against Argentina in the summer, another dollop of suet would do just fine if it brings the scalp of the European champions regardless of what it does to NBC viewing figures.
“We’ve been telling everyone all week over here how great rugby is but I’d take REPORTS a horrible 3-0 win,” said Wilson. “I’d feel sorry for the fans who came but if we walk away with four or five points, I’ll be happy.
“Without trying to sound like a party pooper, our sole focus is to win the game.
“We’re here to do a job. At the moment we have a 100 per cent record and we want to keep that intact.”
Newcastle have not beaten Saracens for nine years and their task is not made any easier by the return of Billy Vunipola after shoulder surgery in a Sarries starting line-up that boasts five Lions.
The Falcons are indisputably on the up, though, even with no sign of summer signings Toby Flood or DTH van der Merwe yet, leaving behind their usual status as relegation candidates.
“Last year was our best finish for a long time and the steps forward we have taken breeds a lot of confidence,” said Wilson. “We knew Worcester at home would be a great first game for us; last week at Sale was a scrappy win but great teams can win ugly. Hopefully we can keep grinding out the wins.”
However in agreeing to take this game 3,500 miles to Talen Energy Stadium, home of MLS side Philadelphia Union, Newcastle have surrendered home advantage.
Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards said: “It was a big call to give a home game up in terms of the fans and our home record. We are a difficult side to beat at Kingston Park. But it is exciting for the club and untrodden territory. We are growing the interest in the league – and it broadens our horizons too.”
The missionary element this week has included Saracens’ American wing Chris Wyles throwing the first pitch ahead of the PhilliesMarlins baseball game.
“It was the first time I’d really watched baseball. I didn’t know what was going on but I enjoyed it,” said Wilson, who was in the stands. “We’ve been out and about while here seeing the sights and we’ve had plenty of people ask us who we are and what’s going on.”