Debut delight for Johnson
By Harry Scott-Munro
1/2/21
Rachel Johnson was all smiles after she capped her Exeter Chiefs Women's debut with a try in their memorable 22-14 victory over Saracens in the Allianz Premier 15s.
The American international, who only joined the Chiefs last month alongside compatriot Joanna Kitlinki and Ireland's Laura Sheehan, scored what proved to be the decisive try as Susie Appleby's side ended the Londoners 33-match unbeaten run that stretched back to 2018.
It was described as one of the best-ever displays in the division, but it was just reward for the Devonians, who sealed their win thanks to tries from Poppy Leitch, Johnson and her international colleague Kate Zackary.
Fellow American Gabby Cantorna completed the job for the Chiefs, slotting seven points with the boot to ensure a fifth win of the season.
At full-time, a beaming Johnson was delighted to be back playing competitive rugby. She said: “It was a great time and I am super grateful to be back out on the pitch, the Chiefs have been great.”
Having only arrived at the beginning of January, Johnson has quickly settled into the team, a fact helped by having several of her international team-mates around her.
“It’s good to know some people and it’s good to be with people that I’ve seen play before but, like I said, everyone has been super welcoming.”
Despite being named on the bench against Bristol Bears in Exeter's previous fixture, Johnson was an unused replacement in the victory up at Shaftsbury Park.
However, she certainly made her mark once Appleby unleashed her against the reigning Premier 15s champions, her late try allowing the Chiefs some breathing space as the game entered its final minutes.
“I think we really showed that we’re a respectable side,” explained Johnson. “There’s a few tweaks to make, but I think we showed great control of the game and we’re just going to keep building.”
The determination of Appleby’s side to impose themselves on Saracens in all aspects of the game was evident from the first minute and Johnson was delighted with how the performance came together on the pitch.
“The ladies really pulled it together. Sarries are super respectable competition, but we’d been prepping all week for this and the girls really bought it in defence and offence.”
This Saturday sees the Chiefs face another stern test with current league leaders Harlequins making the trip to Sandy Park (2pm).