Paterson praises Wanderers for '˜great achievement'

Michael Paterson says it is a '˜great achievement' for the Wanderers to reach the Aviva A League final.
Michael Paterson skippered the Wanderers to victory against Saracens Storm on Monday night (picture: Dave Ikin)Michael Paterson skippered the Wanderers to victory against Saracens Storm on Monday night (picture: Dave Ikin)
Michael Paterson skippered the Wanderers to victory against Saracens Storm on Monday night (picture: Dave Ikin)

The Saints second string set up a showpiece against Exeter Braves at Sandy Park after slaying Saracens Storm 16-12 at Franklin’s Gardens on Monday night.

Tries from Ben Nutley and Tom Kessell, allied with two penalties from JJ Hanrahan, propelled the Wanderers into the final, which will take place next Monday at 3.30pm.

And experienced lock Paterson, who was captain for the night, said: “It’s a great achievement for us.

“The boys have worked hard all year. We had tough conditions with a slippery ball, but we kept the try line clean and got the win.

“The boys pride ourselves on our defence. Saracens are a tough outfit and it’s really good to keep them from crossing our line.

“We stuck together and went to the maul that worked for us and got the momentum. Then Tom Kessell scoring the try sealed the game.”

And on the trip to Exeter, who saw off Newcastle in the other semi-final, he said: “Exeter is a tough place to play.

“The first team came up just short, so hopefully we can go one better next Monday and get some silverware in the cabinet.”

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