Don Barrell.

Don Barrell, the former Watford Grammar School for Boys pupil, was over the moon after winning his first Saracens start in Sunday's Premiership victory over Sale Sharks.

Having made three appearances from the bench this season the 22-year-old finally got a full 80 minutes under his belt for Alan Gaffney's play-off chasing side.

Barrell, predominantly used as a number eight, was prefered as openside flanker ahead of Richard Hill and David Seymour.

"I'm delighted to get my first start, it's been a while coming," he said. "I've been biding my time and when I got the nod I knew I would be ready for it.

"It's always good to mark your first cap with a win, although we made hard work of it. I relaxed more as the game wore on but I was so tired at the end.

"It was great having all my family and friends there while I must also thank the kids from my old rugby club Harrow, who made a massive banner with 'roll out the Barrell' written on it."

The anthropology graduate admits he never expected to be involved against the 2005/06 champions and was instead preparing for a trip to Coventry with his sometime loan club, Esher.

"I was man of the match in Esher's win over Newbury and was all set to go to Coventry last Saturday," added Barrell.

"Then I got a phonecall from Adrian Kennedy (Sarries forwards coach) telling me they (Saracens) wanted to play me at seven.

"I was a bit surprised but I knew it was my chance to put my hand up, and I think I did that.

"I was told not to do anything flash and just do what I had done from the bench previously. I made plenty of tackles and Gaff seemed pleased with me.

"I'm taking it one step at a time but I've shown that I can stand up and do well. The next challenge is to nail down a regular starting place."

1:54pm Tuesday 11th March 2008

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