In charge: Mark McCall
(Picture: PA)Elliot Daly might have had to tread unwanted new ground this autumn, but Mark McCall has hailed Saracens’ “magic” man for boosting the Men In Black.
The 30-year-old bagged a try and conjured a stunning assist as Saracens saw off Edinburgh 30-26 at StoneX Stadium to start their Champions Cup run with a vital win.
Daly has been off the England radar for all but two years, but that could all change after the RFU sacked Eddie Jones.
Saracens boss McCall revealed Daly has relished a first November in some years without Test duty, to spring into top form and boost the Barnet men.
“I’ve been so impressed with him, because he’s not used to being at the club in November; to be honest he’s just not!” said McCall. “H was superb, not just in his performances but also around our younger players during that time.
“He kind of leads by example, because honestly, he just loves rugby, he really does. He never misses training, he brings unbelievable energy, he can’t wait to get out there and he’s just happy to play whatever position we put him in. He’s a real energy-giver.
“Elliot’s been in great form all year, and we had to rely on a couple of bits of magic from some players today. And his grubber, the way he took his first try, Owen [Farrell]’s kick-pass as well. Elliot’s in great form.”
Daly’s disguised grubber sent Alex Lewington home for a fine score, to add to his own finish from Farrell’s kick-pass.
Ben Earl and Tom Woolstencroft also crossed in a victory that left Saracens frustrated with their performance levels, but delighted to be back in Champions Cup business.
Farrell and Nick Tompkins pulled off a vital try-saving tackle on James Lang, with the England fly-half immediately atoning for throwing an intercept pass.
“We didn’t reach our standards today but at the same time we’re grateful we could get the win,” said McCall. “It says a lot about him that Owen Farrell would create the problem but then go on to solve it straight away.
“We’re not pleased with how we played of course but we know in this competition it can be about finding ways to get results and that’s important.”
