England Under-20 host Ireland in their first home game of the 2014 Six Nations, and with one win and one loss from their opening two matches a win over the Irish is a necessity if England are to retain their title.
Twelve months ago England put six tries 50 points past Italy at the Gardens on their way to lifting the Six Nations silverware, a campaign which provided the perfect stepping stone to the IRB Junior World Championship title in June.
Hobbs-Awoyemi has played at Franklin’s Gardens for the Saints Academy, the Wanderers and England Under-20, and while he acknowledges that there are always going to be differences between the various teams there is always one constant – the motivation which comes from playing on your home turf.
“It’s a little different because the lead-up to the game is different for different teams, but playing here there’s always a good turn-out for the teams, whether it’s Wanderers, England or the Saints first team,” the Northampton-born-and-bred prop says. “Hopefully it’ll be similar on Saturday and I’ll be ready to go.
“Last year there was a massive crowd and I enjoyed it. You get up for the game more because it’s your home club and you’re playing for your country. Loads of things come into one and it’s a great experience.”
A full interview with Hobbs-Awoyemi is in the programme for Saturday’s game. And tickets remain available throughout the week by CLICKING HERE and following the instructions, whether you’re on a desktop, laptop. tablet or smartphone.
It’s a full day of international rugby, with England’s senior Six Nations clash with Ireland being shown live on the big screens at Franklin’s Gardens from 4pm, and then again after the Under-20s match has finished.
