Saracens’ Vunipola has reason for joy

Manu Vunipola is aware he is only keeping the No 10 jersey warm until Owen Farrell recovers from his exhausting Japan exploits and resumes club duties. But the Saracens youngster has certainly grasped his early-season opportunities, and showed just why people are tipping him to join cousins Billy and Mako on the senior international stage.

Vunipola, 19, who has represented England at Under-20 level, demonstrated a cool head under pressure to convert the match-winning penalty in a 16-13 victory over London Irish at Allianz Park. After missing two attempted conversions, he refocused to strike the winning blow with the final kick of the game, which took place shortly after his relatives suffered crushing defeat in the World Cup final.

“It was the first time I had had that kind of pressurised moment,” he said. “It was a nice way to end a strange day starting with the sadness of England losing and the boys looking so hurt. Hopefully, it will put a smile back on their faces. I can’t wait to see them back here because they should be proud of what they achieved in getting to a World Cup final, and I sent them a message telling them so. I told them to get a beer and celebrate, because they deserve it still.”

Meanwhile, at Sixways yesterday, Exeter Chiefs maintained their unbeaten league record with a battling 24-20 victory over Worcester Warriors.

The visitors trailed 17-3 at one stage but a much-improved second-half performance saw them run out deserved winners, with a try from Harry Williams five minutes from time proving decisive. Jack Maunder and Matt Kvesic also scored tries for Exeter, with Joe Simmonds converting all three and adding a penalty.