Coach Hopley hails Saints’ five Junior World Championship stars

STAR TURN - Saints prop Danny Hobbs-Awoyemi played a key role in England's win in the Junior World Championship

Danny Hobbs-Awoyemi, Jordan Onojaife, Sam Olver, Tom Stephenson and Howard Packman all played their part in the success story in New Zealand.

Loosehead prop Hobbs-Awoyemi and full-back Packman both started in the 21-20 final victory against South Africa.

And Hopley couldn’t be happier for his club’s young charges, who look set to have a bright future at Franklin’s Gardens.

“I’m delighted for all five of our lads,” Hopley said.

“The Junior World Championships is a tough competition with some talented teams and to win it two years in succession is a massive achievement.

“We’ve seen all of our players develop massively over the past year and this is reflected in the performances that they have put in over the past couple of weeks.

“Danny Hobbs-Awoyemi in particular has had an outstanding tournament in both the set piece and in the loose and he has a big future ahead of him, as do all of our players.

“But they know that while they’ll be able to relax and enjoy a summer break, they have also set the standard for themselves, which they will have to start beating in pre-season in a few weeks.”