JAMIE ROBERTS HASN’T enjoyed the smoothest of times in France since joining Racing Métro in 2013, but there remains little doubt that he is a world-class centre when at his best.
That much was in evidence on Saturday as the Welshman hit what was arguably his peak for the Parisians during their stunning 32-8 victory away to the Northampton Saints.
Roberts made 13 direct carries, beating four defenders and offloading twice. Defensively, there were six powerful tackles and one turnover of the Saints’ possession. His pick-up at the 1:47 mark in the video below was nothing short of sensational.
Wales head coach Warren Gatland will have been pleased to see Roberts in such excellent form ahead of the Six Nations, while Racing’s investment in the 28-year-old is looking increasingly wise.
The French side’s emergence as top seeds to ensure a home Champions Cup quarter-final against Saracens in April has been somewhat surprising, although Racing’s squad list has been intimidating over the last two years.
Coaching duo Laurent Travers and Laurent Labit will look forward to their knock-out tie with some confidence, and Roberts is likely to play a key part again when that fixture rolls around.
