8:00pm Sunday 7th February 2010
By Tom Guest
WARRIORS coach Billy McGinty praised the mental fortitude of academy product Chris Pennell after the young winger scored the opening try of the 19-9 LV= Cup victory over London Irish at Sixways.
Pennell, who has recently put pen to paper on a new two-year contract with Worcester, set his side on the way to success in the Anglo-Welsh dead rubber after just six minutes following a powerful break by centre Dale Rasmussen.
Although it is only a matter of months since Pennell went under the knife for the second knee reconstruction operation of his short career, he has already found top form, scoring four tries in his last five games for Warriors in all competitions.
McGinty is full of admiration for the versatile back, who he believes has the strength of character to make it all the way in the game.
“Chris has just been exceptional,” said McGinty.
“It takes a long time to come back from the type of injury he has had but he has come back as if he was never injured.
“It’s fantastic and I can’t believe how quickly he has adapted to the speed of the game. I’m very pleased for him.
“I believe Chris is one of our most talented players, he has unfortunately had a lot of injuries over the last few years and a lot of players would have maybe even retired by now.
“But Chris is so tough mentally and just wants to be here and be a top-notch professional rugby player.
“He is determined to get there, regardless of whatever is put in front of him.
“He keeps climbing over the hurdles and comes back stronger every time.
“Chris is an extremely talented player and I am so pleased he got the extension to his contract.”
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