Farrell expecting ‘special’ atmosphere

Owen Farrell believes Wembley will be rocking on Saturday when Saracens could be backed by a world record crowd for their clash with Harlequins.
Owen Farrell trains on the Wembley pitch

Owen Farrell believes Wembley will be rocking on Saturday when Saracens could be backed by a world record crowd for their clash with Harlequins.

Saracens’ match with the same opposition at Wembley back in March 2012 attracted the biggest crowd ever to watch a club rugby union match with 83,671 spectators in attendance.

And with over 80,000 tickets already sold, that record could well be smashed tomorrow and that is a prospect which excites fly-half Farrell.

“It’s always an unbelievable atmosphere and hopefully the crowd will be massive at the weekend,” said the England star. “It was the world record the last time we played here so to beat that would take some doing. It’d be pretty special.”

Farrell scored 14 of Saracens’ 19 points the last time the side played at Wembley and he admits that a game at the National Stadium is always something to relish.

“Playing in a stadium like this is always going to be incredible, the size of the crowd makes it a massive occasion,” added Farrell. “To play a team like Harlequins in a stadium like Wembley is always special.”

Saracens go into the game in good form after three consecutive wins in the Aviva Premiership and Farrell says the second placed side are brimming with confidence ahead of the London derby.

“We believe in ourselves and we back ourselves against anybody, especially as the lads have played here quite a few times before. No-one is looking forward to it more than us.”

And it’s not just his own side that Farrell is backing on Saturday. Greg Rutherford will attempt to win £1m for Sport Relief at half time by catching three up and unders.

And Farrell says he has faith in the Olympic long jump gold medallist.

“I think Greg will be alright,” said Farrell. “I’ve seen a few other people take it on and they didn’t do too badly so I think he’ll be fine.”

Tickets are still on sale from Ticketmaster