English downplays milestone achievement

Thu, Apr 11, 2019, 3:04 AM
Rebels Media
by Rebels Media

Melbourne star centre Tom English has downplayed being the most capped player Rebels player in history.

English, who recently over took Club great and Foundation prop Laurie Weeks’ record of 85 games for Melbourne, believes the time to reflect on the honour will come after the conclusion of the season.

While English admits he feels honoured to be recognised for his long service to the Club, the 28-year-old says his key focus still remains on getting results for the Rebels.

“Nothing really has changed, you’ve got to treat it week by week, accolades will come at the end of the season and then I can sit back and be proud of what I’ve done,” English said.

“It’s always nice to be recognised for being at this Club for such a long time and being a part of all the ups and downs.

“But to take the milestone from Weeksy (Laurie Weeks) is a bit sad, because he’s a good mate of mine, but yeah, all focus was on the games.”

As English enters his seventh year of Super Rugby, the ever-reliable centre is showing no signs of slowing down.

English has registered five tries in seven games, to sit sixth in the Super Rugby competition for tries scored.

While English believes his rich vein of form has come from his more mature development as a player, the back also says his job is made easier given the quality players surrounding him.

“I think I’ve matured more as a player,” English said.

“I think it helps when you’re in a squad that’s doing well and with such quality players, it makes your job a hell of a lot easier.

“I find playing outside Will (Genia), Bill (Meakes) and Quade (Cooper), players who at the top of their game at the moment, it really brings everyone else up around them.”

English’ focus is now zeroed in on Friday night’s massive clash with the Stormers at AAMI Park, as the Rebels look to continue their lead atop of the Australian Conference table.

And English says the Rebels will have to be wary of the Cape Town side, who will be hungry for redemption after a 12-point loss to the Red’s last weekend.

“It’s always tough travelling and being on the road, we were on the receiving end in South Africa, but they’re a great team,” English said.

“They have some quality players like Damian de Allende the Springbok (number) 12, he’s their go-to man.

“Their forwards, they always play a quality side, so I don’t think we can take (this) team too lightly.”

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