Mark Jennings Interview

 

Talking Rugby Union caught up with England u18 Mark Jennings - Check him out on twitter http://twitter.com/#!/MarkyJ12

1. How do you think the game went against Wales?

It was a big show of character from the lads, coming from 17 points down. We dug deep, believed in the ability of one another, and it paid off as the score line shows.

2. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time?

Playing regular rugby for Sale first team, and hopefully pushing for a Saxons spot.

3. Have you any career highlights so far?

Beating Wales yesterday is up there, also scoring against South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Stadium.

4. Who was your rugby hero growing up and have you got any heroes who are still playing?

Jason Robinson, current hero has got to be Sonny-Bill WIlliams



5. Do you get time to watch any other Rugby Union leagues such as Magners League, Top 14 or super rugby?

Yeah, if I'm up in the morning I'll watch the Super Rugby, or I'll Sky+ it and watch it a few days later. I like to watch the Crusaders, all my family support the Sharks though, so it was good to see the Crusaders win at Twickenham a few weeks back.

6. The whole squad has done very well to get chosen for the England u18's a huge honour, but for players hoping to get this achievement what advice would you give them?

Make sure you do the small things right that make sure you perform to your optimum level. Play your own game, mould yourself on yourself, don't try and be anyone else.

7. How do trips like coming to France to play Wales help squad morale and cohesion? Does it bring you all closer together?

Definitely, the banter's top class. It's always good to come away with the boys, especially for longer than a weekend. It helps with the cohesion, and especially after beating Wales it's good that we've got a week together before the final.

8. I came to watch the England u18's play against Italy in Sale. You produced an awesome performance and easily beat the Italians, how is playing rugby for England benefiting you?

It helps us to get recognised by the academy, and hopefully the other England coaches will be watching and I can progress through the age groups.

9. Which England players would you most like to play in the same team as?

I'm happy playing with the 18s at the moment, but if I had to play with anyone from the senior set up it would probably be Chris Ashton. He's sick. I'm a fan of Ben Foden as well.

10. How do you think England will do in the world cup this coming summer?

I think our chances are quite good. Especially after the successful 6 Nations campaign, there's good talent in the Saxons that are fighting for first team spots, so there's a lot of competition which is always good.

Other Questions

Favourite holiday destination? Johannesburg

Favourite food? Nando's meal platter

Favourite movies? Step brothers

Favourite band/artist? Miley Cyrus

Hero (who isn't in rugby)? Una Healey

Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)? Lancashire Lightening netball team

What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby? Playing Call of Duty, Crisis ¦ all sorts, just X Box in general

What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk? Great website, it gives a great insight into rugby players and what they're thinking.