Coach pays tribute to talent of matchwinner Geragthy
Northampton Saints boss Jim Mallinder hailed a 'special talent' in Shane Geraghty as the twinkled-toed fly-half sparkled under the lights to beat Munster.
With England manager Martin Johnson watching from the stands, Geraghty put in a sublime display to score a try and set up two more against the star-studded Irish giants.
Against a side packed with internationals, he shone in a display that inspired a 31-27 Heineken Cup opening Pool One win that will live long in the memory of Saints fans.
Mallinder said: "He is a special talent.
"What he has done is back up a number of very good performances for us this season. Although that is probably one of his best.
"He took a lot of good options in attack and he can see where space is, whether it is his kicking or his running game. He is a real threat to defenders."
Jonny Wilkinson is tipped to return at fly-half for England with Geraghty touted at inside centre.
But after watching this display Johnson may have to think again.
Mallinder added: "Martin Johnson has got to decide that himself – whether he wants to play him and where.
"But I would certainly have no hesitation in playing him in either position."
After taking over with the club in National League One, the win over Munster shows how far Saints have come in two seasons under Mallinder's guidance.
"Beating Munster confirms the belief we are a good side," said Mallinder.
"This year we have improved. Even though we have not won all five games in the league, we have certainly shown improvement and been competitive in all of them.
"It backs that up and shows we are a good side and can compete at the top level now.
"As soon as we got Munster in the draw we got excited about it. Not just the players but the club and the town.
"I don't think Munster let themselves down in terms of creating and helping adding to the occasion."
Report, reaction and pictures in today's Sport on Monday supplement.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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