McCabe’s big break at the Brumbies
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Warringah's Pat McCabe has been named on the wing for the Brumbies against the Western Force.
WALLABY stalwart Stirling Mortlock is certain Warringah back Pat McCabe can lock down a permanent berth in the Brumbies starting team this year.
McCabe was on Tuesday handed his maiden Super 14 cap when named on the wing for the Brumbies ahead of their season opener against the Western Force in Perth.
The 21-year-old has overcome a torn quadricep, suffered before Christmas, to earn his place in the squad.
Mortlock, who will start in his customary position at outside centre, said McCabe has the goods to make the No.14 jumper his own in 2010.
“Ever since Pat has been involved with the team, we’ve been extremely impressed with his talent and his work ethic,” the 80-Test veteran explained to The Manly Daily on Tuesday.
“Unfortunately for him, he’s had a really tough trot with injury.
“But even with his limited pre-season with the team, he’s shown his qualities, which is fantastic. I have got full confidence in his ability.
“He’s got the opportunity to lock it (a place on the wing) down for a period of time and I’m sure Pat will jump at this opportunity. I hope he makes the most of it.”
Which is precisely what McCabe intends to do when he takes the field on Friday night.
“It’s a bit of a dream come true,” the young Rats utility back said.
“I’ve just got to try and put my best foot forward and hopefully keep my place.
“It’s nice to get first crack at it at the start of the year.”
Particularly when the exciting back sat out two months of the pre-season through injury.
A torn tendon in his quadricep, suffered in December, put some strain on McCabe’s preparations.
The youngster only started full training last week, impressing just in time to secure his place in the team.
“It was far from ideal,” McCabe said of his summer.
“But, it doesn’t really matter now, the season is here.”
Departing Australian backrower George Smith will also start at openside flanker, with his brother, Tyrone, coming off the bench.
http://manly-daily.whereilive.com.au...-the-brumbies/
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