Youngsters get Steeno backing

By Howard Lloyd
28/11/16

Gareth Steenson says young Exeter Chiefs fly-half Joe Simmonds has the potential to be able to cut it at the top level – and perhaps one day claim the Irishman's all-time league points record at the club.

Simmonds booted the first Premiership points of his fledgling career on Saturday in the 57-22 victory over Worcester Warriors having come off the bench after 56 minutes in place of Steenson.

The young playmaker has a long way to go to emulate club legend Steenson, who became the Chiefs' leading league points scorer in March after surpassing Tony Yapp's tally of 1,526.

But Dungannon-born Steenson says that, from what he has seen, Simmonds does have what it takes to make it in the top flight.

"Joe is a very talented boy," said the 32-year-old. "I think he has got a good future in the game and it is great that he has now got his first points in the Premiership.

"Saturday was about the opportunity. He got the opportunity for a run-out and he enjoyed it and didn't put too much pressure on himself. He has got all the attributes. He just needs a bit of experience. He has got a bit on loan and has done really well out there.

"I do get the opportunity to work closely with him in our kicking sessions and stuff and that has come on really well. His goal-kicking is pretty sound and hopefully now he can push and on and maybe even chase me down before his time."

Another youngster to enjoy a prolonged run-out was blossoming scrum-half Jack Maunder.

Son of club legend Andy, the 19-year-old has looked at home after making his debut in the European Champions Cup defeat to Clermont Auvergne in October.

"I think that Jack has come on leaps and bounds," continued Steenson. "He has added a bit of confidence from having been around the guys and he bosses them really well. It is great for the academy system, which is working really well. To see those guys running around for 25 minutes together is great."

Saturday's comprehensive win over the Warriors that Exe have now strung together back-to-back Premiership victories, while it is three wins in a row in all competitions.

Two consecutive bonus-point wins has steadied the ship somewhat after what was a disappointing start to the new campaign.

Up next is a tough-looking trip to Sale Sharks on Friday night – a match which Steenson is relishing.

"We talked during the week about the performance and if we could get a couple of good wins it can drive us up the league and it was great to get the five last week and it was good to get another five this week," he said.

"It puts us in a good position and hopefully now with a short turnaround going into Friday night it's really exciting for us. We've never really put in a performance up there so it's actually a good challenge for us – I think it's one that we can really get our teeth into."