HEWITT “HONOURED” TO MAKE FIRST-TEAM DEBUT

Sam Hewitt reflects on the Giants 22-22 draw with Leeds Rhinos

Sam Hewitt spoke to giantsrl.com after his Betfred Super League debut in the West Yorkshire Derby.

The academy player was named as one of the interchanges ahead of their encounter with Leeds Rhinos after signing a two-year contract earlier this month.

The second-rower came on after ten minutes, after Chris Thorman was forced to make a change as Aaron Murphy came off with an injury:

“I was a bit nervous at first, but as soon as you get on there, you get over it,” explained Hewitt. “I wasn’t expecting to go on after ten minutes, I was thrown in at centre and I enjoyed it!

“It wasn’t too bad at centre, I feel I adapted to it alright and I’ve played there a little bit in the academy, so I didn’t mind it.”

The debutant was involved in an entertaining match against the West Yorkshire rivals, and Hewitt explained his derby experience:

“I thought it went well, I thought I brought quite a bit of enthusiasm when I came on. All the boys had a good dig and we were unlucky not to get the result, I’m pleased with a draw, although I think we should have won, but we go again against Catalan.”

Hewitt’s family were in the stands cheering on their relative, and the forward was delighted to be given his first appearance for the Claret and Gold:

“They were pleased, they were filling me with encouragement, telling me to do my best and go out there and make us proud, so I hope I have done,” explained Hewitt. “I’m chuffed, I’m really glad the Club have given me the chance to do this and I’m honoured to make my debut today.”

Hewitt won the 2017 Academy Player of the Year award last year, and he has explained the difference between the under 19s and first team:

“The speed of it is a massive increase, I couldn’t believe how fast it was.

“You’ve just got to think that you deserve to be on that pitch when you’re given the opportunity, you’ve just got to go out there and try and do your best.”