Eorl Crabtree Testimonial: Eorl's Blog #2

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Blog Issue #2: Special Interview

Crabtree looking forward to Four Nations Final...
By Shamoon Hafez

England pulled off an unexpected 20-12 victory over New Zealand, at the Galpharm Stadium, to set-up a Four Nations Final against fierce rivals Australia.

Local hero Eorl Crabtree expressed his delight at beating the World Champions.

“This is a fantastic result but we believed we could do it anyway. We came out hitting hard and were able to match their enthusiasm which was key to our victory. Battling hard, being committed as well as enjoying every minute of it has got us through to the final,” he said.

Next come the Aussies at Elland Road and Crabtree is confident about their chances against the men from Down-Under.

“I don’t see why we can’t win against Australia. We’ve progressed as a team, we’ve improved immensely and we need to carry on that form to have a chance against them,” he said positively.

He also went on to reveal what coach Tony Smith expected of them and how they would be able to defeat the Kiwis.

“We knew we had to front up against a physical side and knew they would come out hunting us. They are a confident side and if they hit us hard then they can thrive off that but we were better than them in that department,” explained ‘Big Eorl’.

Having been a stadium steward at the age of 15, watching the football and rugby teams in action, it shows a remarkable rise in stature for the Huddersfield prop.

From protecting the field to stepping on it as an international forward, Crabtree is living the dream of every young boy wanting to play rugby league.

“Having taken the steps up from watching to playing is amazing. It was a massive thing for me playing for England on my home ground.

“I have been overlooked a few times but that has made me stronger as a player and now that I ahve got here, I want to stay here.

“The crowd rose when I came on as they always do and I wouldn’t change it for the world,” he said joyfully.

Standing at 6’4 with long, blonde locks, the Giants number 8 is not easily missed on the pitch and with his barnstorming runs and big hits on the opposition, he is somewhat of a cult-hero to the fans.

“I thrive on pressure and love it when people get in my face but the crowd lift me immensely. The buzz I get when step onto the Galpharm turf is like nothing else, and the roar gives me the energy and the sense of belonging with the supporters,” he described.

Crabtree is also beginning his testimonial year at the Giants and stated his happiness at the club by saying:

“I am very happy at Huddersfield and recently signed a five-year deal so I’m committed to the Giants cause. Hopefully it will be a great year for me and the team with many events being held for people to enjoy.”

A victory on Saturday will mean England’s first tournament win since 1972 and the perfect way to kick-off a celebratory year for Eorl Crabtree.

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