Fullback Hook just happy to be playing

James Hook is warming to his task as Wales’ emergency fullback although the versatile Osprey admits that he would rather be wearing No.10 as Argentina roll in to the Millennium Stadium in Saturday.

Hook filled in well for the injured Lee Byrne against the All Blacks two weeks ago and showed glimpses of his best running game in last weekend’s narrow win over Samoa. He is glad of the playing time after warming the bench for much of last season.

The 35-cap utility has struggled to displace Stephen Jones at fly-half at international level and has played much of his domestic rugby in the centre this season to accommodate youngster Dan Biggar.

“I am enjoying it at the moment,” said Hook. “It’s been difficult for me and it is taking time, but I am getting used to it. I would rather be playing than sitting on the bench, but fly-half is still my preferred position.

“I’ve got to play where I am picked. I sat on the bench a lot last year - 15 is not my position, but being out there is the main thing. I have put a lot of work into training and I am a bit more confident under the high ball. It is not something I fear, and I speak to Lee after every game and he is a help.

“Argentina are going to kick against us on Saturday, but hopefully that will give our back three chances to attack. It’s an opportunity we will relish.”

Hook helped Wales produce 11 clean breaks against Samoa but their profligacy in attack left them with only a single try at the final whistle. With the Pumas’ heavyweight pack set to grind away at Wales Hook knows that they cannot afford to waste attacking opportunities.

“It was a bit disappointing we didn’t score a few more points against Samoa, that we didn’t finish one or two opportunities we had, but on another day we might have done,” said Hook. “If we can create some opportunities against Argentina, I am sure we will score more and be okay.

“It would be great to get two wins now against Argentina and Australia and put in two good performances. It’s going to be really tough, but there is potential in this team.” (source)