Hot shot Daniels happy to continue education at Molesey Road

Posted on Jun 28, 2012 in Moseley

Luke Daniels, who shot to prominence last year after working his way up Esher’s youth structure, has committed himself to the club for another year after putting pen to paper on a new deal.

The 20-year-old full back, who played his formative rugby at one of South Africa’s top educational establishments in Grey High School, has only been in the UK for just over a year but has already made a name for himself in rugby circles.

A seven month stint on the sidelines with a shoulder injury almost saw Daniels return home to Port Elizabeth but after deciding to stay, he flourished in the club’s academy side.

10 first team appearances have since followed, with the last – away at London Scottish on the final day of the campaign – seeing Daniels score a contender for try of the season.

County honours with Surrey and England Counties have ensued but the youngster is now really hoping to push on under the tutelage of incoming head coach Ollie Smith.

“As I’m still young I have a lot to learn. I think I have gained a good foundation of skills and have a fierce passion for rugby and Ollie, with all his playing experience, will definitely help me develop as a player,” he said.

“My experience at Esher on and off the field has been amazing thus far. I was obviously gutted when we were relegated but with a really good bunch of the lads staying, to carry on here was an easy decision to make.

“I think the new setup at the club is really positive and I believe we will put up a really strong fight for promotion back into the Championship at the first attempt.”

Marler to replace Corbisiero

Posted on Jun 22, 2012 in England

JOE MARLER of Harlequins will replace Alex Corbisiero in the starting line-up for tomorrow’s 3^rd Test at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth.

Corbisiero has suffered a recurrence of a knee complaint and Marler will therefore wear the No 1 shirt against South Africa with Paul Doran Jones coming on to the replacements’ bench.

England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said: “Alex trained well early in the week having played well at the weekend but the knee reacted over the last 24 hours. It is a shame for Alex as he was desperate to take part but it’s the right thing to put in Joe and we are sure he can build on his performances in the first two Tests.”