“It was all about getting stuck in” | Duncan

“It was all about getting stuck in” | Duncan

If Macenzzie Duncan was feeling any pre-match nervousness ahead of his first start in Glasgow Warriors colours, it’s safe to say that his performance at the Aviva Stadium was a textbook example of how to channel that energy to his advantage.

The 22-year-old was a notable presence throughout his hour on the field in Dublin, his physicality in both attack and defence drawing plaudits from pundits and spectators alike in an impressive display from the Clevedon RFC product.

Duncan was in high spirits following the full-time whistle despite his side being edged out by Leinster to close out the 2024/25 regular season, following a shift at the heart of the youngest pack fielded by Glasgow Warriors this season.

“It was a long day so there were definitely a few nerves!” the flanker told glasgowwarriors.org.

“Once we got out there, though, the feeling was something else.

“To make my first start in such a big game and in such an iconic stadium, that’s probably one of the best days of my life so far.”

Duncan’s performance was just one of a host of eye-catching displays from the club’s young guns, with 19-year-old Seb Stephen producing a barnstorming display on his professional debut and Jare Oguntibeju turning in an all-action outing in the engine room.

The back-rower believes the performances can be attributed in part to the support network provided by his fellow Warriors, highlighting the messaging from the club’s coaches and senior players in the run-up to Saturday night’s clash.

“There was no pressure put on me from anyone this week,” he explained.

“All the senior boys just said ‘we got you’ and reinforced that there’s no focus on me, and that if I made a mistake it’s not the end of the day.

“Everyone was out there fighting for each other. Even someone like Seb [Stephen] on his debut – he was getting stuck in from minute one with no fear and that’s what this group is all about.”

It was the latest milestone in a landmark campaign for the back-rower, which has also seen included his senior Glasgow Warriors debut, as well as impressive performances for the club’s U23 squad and Scotland A.

With the flanker amongst those also in contention for Thursday’s A team clash with Black Lion at Scotstoun, Duncan is ready to take whatever opportunities come his way – be that in the playoffs or in future campaigns.

“That game [on Saturday], that’s the sort of game that you love and that you want to be involved in,” he said.

“Even when you’re feeling a bit tired, everyone wants to get up and go again, and focus on the next job. It’s all about getting stuck in across the field and doing your bit for the team.

“This season has been amazing for me, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that have come my way from the coaches.

“To have the chance to run out tonight – that’s the sort of stuff that dreams are made of. Whatever comes my way next, I’m ready and we’ll go from there.”

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