Glasgow Warriors starlet Macenzzie Duncan has described making his first start for the club against Leinster in Dublin on Saturday evening as one of the best days of his life.
The 22-year-old had a noticeable presence during his hour on the pitch in Dublin, as Franco Smith’s team produced a far more competitive performance than the 52-0 Champions Cup thrashing of the Irish province a month earlier.
Duncan made his Warriors debut in February, after being an unused substitute twice earlier in the season.
With Glasgow’s injury list growing, Duncan was given his first start in the final regular-season game against a Leinster pack that comprised five British and Irish Lions, as well as double Rugby World Cup winner RG Snyman.
“It was a long day, so there were definitely a few nerves!” the 22-year-old said.
He said, “Once we went out there, though, the feeling was different.
“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 was a member of a young Glasgow pack, with hooker Seb Stephen impressing on his debut and Jare Oguntibeju continuing his fast ascent in the second row.
The back-row forward believes his teammates’ support network has helped him perform well.
He emphasized the messaging from the club’s coaches and senior players in the buildup to Saturday night’s match.
“There was no pressure put on me from anyone this week,” he told me.
“All the senior boys basically said ‘we got you’ and emphasized that there is no focus on me and that making a mistake is not the end of the world.
“Everyone was out there battling for one another. Even on his debut, Seb [Stephen] jumped right in without hesitation, and that’s what this group is all about.
Duncan’s strong performance may have propelled him into contention for the United Rugby Championship quarterfinal against the Stormers on May 30.
However, the flanker may be involved when Glasgow meet Georgian side Black Lion, coached by former Edinburgh manager Richard Cockerill, at Scotstoun on Thursday.
Whatever comes next, the former Bristol Bears player will take it in stride.
With the flanker among those in contention for Thursday’s A-team clash with Black Lion at Scotstoun, Duncan is ready to seize whatever opportunities arise, whether in the playoffs or in future campaigns.
“That’s the type of game you enjoy and want to be involved in,” he remarked, reflecting on his Aviva Stadium experience.
“Even when you’re exhausted, everyone wants to get up and keep going, focusing on the next assignment. It’s all about being involved across the field and doing your part for the team.
“This season has been incredible for me, and I am appreciative for the possibilities provided by the coaches.
“Whatever comes my way next, I’m ready and we’ll go from there.”
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