McRae: We needed to win over Sarries fans

13 April 2012

Australian fly-half Duncan McRae is hoping that Saracens' 37-30 victory over Toulouse in the Heineken Cup will go some way to restoring the faith of fans at Vicarage Road.  

McRae returned to the starting line-up for the European game after a nine week lay-off because of a rib injury.

He said the victory over Toulouse was vital because Sarries had lost their way and needed to win over the supporters again.

"The win today was the most important thing because we have not played well at all lately," said McRae, who has seen Saracens win only two of their last eight Premiership games.

"Our form had been patchy to say the least but today's result is good for both the club and their supporters.

"There was a lot of pressure on us during this match. There is no doubt that if we had been playing well previously we would have had 15,000 people here today, not eight or nine thousand.

"Hopefully this result will prove to the fans that when we are in our stride we are a top side."

McRae revealed Saracens had deliberately kept his return under wraps in an attempt to surprise their French visitors for a match which they knew they had to win.

"We didn't want to release that I was going to be playing because it was thought that I might have been targeted with all the publicity there has been over my injury.

"Saracens needed a number 10 back there today and I was the best candidate out of everyone. I just put it behind me and the guys protected me which meant I was able to attack.

"I was jumping out of my skin to play especially with the way the team has tumbled down the ladder in the Premiership," added McRae, who collected 17 points.

"I just wanted to help the guys out and I think I did. I am pleased with my performance even though my ribs are a bit sore. I gave my body to Saracens."

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