A Word with ... Michael Paterson

Tuesday, April 10, 2007 5:00

Michael Paterson, one of the Crusader rookies to stand out this season, was part of the weekend's big match against Western Force at Jade. He talks to Nick Tolerton.

# Michael, you've played six games already this season but Chris Jack's injury obviously gives you a big opportunity?

Exactly. Obviously it's not good for Jacko to be out so early on, but it's a great opportunity for me to try to showcase what I can do out on the paddock.

# On paper this looks one of the hardest games?

I think we're going to have to go in with the right attitude and front up to them, and probably take a more physical approach to the game than we have in previous weeks. I've heard they're going to try and bully us, and we've got to have to put a stamp on that pretty quickly and hopefully get some front foot ball and get in behind them.

# Did you expect to get as much time on the field as you have this season?

I wasn't even in the 22 for the first game against the Blues and then I made the bench the week following that, and I didn't get on and I was getting a bit frustrated. Deans kept telling me I had to be patient, and against the Lions I made it on and it was good to finally get out there.

# What's been the highlight so far?

All of them mould into one. It's just good to be out there with all the boys and enjoying it and having fun and getting the wins.

# You're at home at lock or blindside flanker, but you've said you prefer the latter?

I've played predominantly at lock in Super 14 ? I haven't played six. At the moment I'm pretty happy to be at lock! Just to be out there is awesome.

# What's the main thing you've learned this season?

Probably more often than not knowing the roles and being connected within the team and doing your job, and just bringing the physicality to step up from NPC or club rugby that Super 14 brings. Super 14 has more physicality than NPC and it's a lot quicker.

# Have Chris and Reuben been any special help to you in your positions?

# Little things, no major things stand out, but the way they present themselves, and obviously the way they do their work in a professional manner.

# You guys who played the Sharks must have been watching that kick of Hewat's in Sydney last weekend a bit anxiously?

Well, there was still quite a lot of time on the clock so we weren't desperate, but if it had gone over I think we would have been trying to make a few changes to get the ball rolling again.

# All time favourite movie?

Shawshank Redemption was a great one. We studied it at school so it's always in the mind.

# Favourite CD?

I enjoy all music, rock music and a bit of hip hop.

# Who's the biggest stirrer at the Crusaders?

Crock likes to try but he doesn't get much success. And Ellis would have to be up there as well, I'd say. Ellis and Crock are the partners in crime, really.

# Tell us about Croczilla?

The Reds player Rodney Blake, there was a bit of a story about Rodzilla V Croczilla in the front row. Croczilla definitely has a reputation in the team now. He's taking a bit of grief but he takes it on the chin. As for him patenting the name ? I've heard stories but yet to see anything on paper.

# Worst room mate?

I haven't had a bad roomie so far. Touch wood I don't get one.

# Messrs Brett and Bateman reckon they make your life a bit miserable reminding you of Christchurch Boys' High's success against Christ's?

To be honest, I think it's all talk what they've told you! I haven't heard much coming from them. I don't see it as a problem!

# Does a Christ's guy having any bragging rights?

Well, we won the Maadi Cup last year and have always been dominant in rowing and were second at the weekend. So that's probably the biggest! And we can win Cantamaths!

# And you were back to college this week?

Yeah, back to where it all started out on Upper. It was a good chance to get back and have a run around.

# What's the funniest thing you've seen in a match?

Floss (Ross Filipo) the other day when he ran past the ball and went on a big charge in Sydney. The boys got a bit of a laugh out of that.

# Favourite TV programme?

Prison Break.

# What are you quickest to switch off?

Shortland Street.

# Do any of the guys watch it?

I'd hate to think so.

# Favourite meal?

Mum's lasagne!