'I just backed myself' - Saints ace Pater reflects on superb England Under-20s try
James Pater feels self-belief was key to his superb score for England Under-20s at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh on Friday night.
The talented Saints teen carved Scotland Under-20s open before playing a one-two with winger Sam Winters and galloping over the line in the 33-17 Under-20s Six Nations success.
“We talked about putting pressure on them and their chase wasn't good so I just backed myself,” Pater explained.
“The space opened up so I was thankful for Wints (Sam Winters) to get on the end of it and give me a one-two.”
Pater, who has made five appearances for Saints this season, was named player of the match as he produced yet another impressive performance.
"Credit to all of the boys,” said the 19-year-old, who can play at full-back or fly-half.
"I'm glad to wear the medal.
"It was physical, tough, and we knew what they were going to bring.
"They had two 10s on the pitch so we knew the kick battle was going to be tough.
"We bought into it and the back three did unbelievably.”
Pater’s Saints team-mates Oliver Scola, Sonny Tonga’uiha and Aiden Ainsworth-Cave also started for England Under-20s against Scotland.
Finn Keylock, Jimmy Staples, Connor Treacey and Will Knight joined Pater on the scoresheet for the Red Rose youngsters, who now prepare to face Ireland Under-20s in Bath on Friday night.