Junior Nsemba finally feeling like he belongs after Super League Dream
JUNIOR Nsemba is finally feeling confident after a Dream of a season – that could end with an England jersey.
The Wigan star has made Super League’s Dream Team following a string of stellar performances as they chase an awesome foursome of trophies.
Now the back rower has a place alongside the competition’s best, he is now feeling like he belongs at that level.
And as the Warriors are two wins for a quadruple, the 20-year-old has learned how to approach big games.
Nsemba said: “I’ve got confidence in myself a bit now. I feel this season has been a good one for me, as well as the team.
“I feel my confidence has definitely grown since last season and that it’s presenting itself on the pitch.
“And while we know how big the occasions are, we don’t want to put too much pressure on ourselves.
“I asked about dealing with occasions around the time of the Challenge Cup final. Even though that and the Grand Final are different, they’re still big.
MOST READ IN RUGBY LEAGUE
“I spoke to Liam Farrell and saw what was going on and how to deal with the pressure. I’d like to think I approach it as a normal game but I put a bit of pressure on myself.
“It’s a bigger occasion, so I need to do better – but once I pray, it calms me down.”
Most read in Rugby League
Nsemba’s displays in his breakthrough year have earned him a place in England boss Shaun Wane’s extended squad for the forthcoming Test series with Samoa.
Home-based stars all met up recently, for a get together and brief video session – even that was a bit of a ‘pinch me’ moment.
Nsemba added: “I was definitely nervous. Meeting people when you’re sat down, chilled out, is different to coming across them on the pitch!”