Gavin Henson had a dream debut for his new side Toulon the French Top 14 yesterday, scoring a try and setting up another as the home side romped to a 38-10 win over Stade Francais at the Stade Felix Mayol.
Since making his comeback after a period out of the game, Henson has made no secret of the fact that his goal is to play in the World Cup for Wales. While his talent and fitness has never been in doubt, whether or not he can back that up on the field is the main question.
He certainly checked a few boxes yesterday, playing the full 80 minutes, which would please Wales coach Warren Gatland, and of course the locals who watched on in anticipation.
“To play in front of that crowd every week would be incredible: the atmosphere in the ground was like an international. If that is what it is like for every game then I can’t wait for the next match,” said Henson.
“It was really tough coming to a new club with an injury but I have fitted in well and it’s great to get my first game under my belt and I really think Toulon could be a perfect place to re-start my career. I love this part of the world and would be happy to see out my career here.
“I feel great and, more importantly, so does my body. It couldnt have gone better for me, to score a try and set up another was a great day. Its a dream come true.
“I was a bit nervous before the game. It has been such a long time since I was out on the rugby pitch and almost two years since I started in the number 12 jersey, so it was great just to play the full 80 minutes. The fact it was such a stop-start game probably helped me in that respect.
“This game will stick in the memory. To score on my debut, in front of that crowd and in front of my parents who came to watch, it’s just amazing. Hopefully this is just the start,” he said.
Below you can view his try, as well as the run and pass that set up Christian Loamanu’s.
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