THE man who unearthed rugby league gem Jason Robinson believes the Sale Shark is now one of union's greats.

Legendary scout Eric Hawley found Robinson two decades ago playing for Hunslet Parkside Boys and set him on his way to becoming a legend in the 13-man code.

Now he reckons Sale's Premiership final showdown with Leicester at Twickenham on Saturday offers the perfect stage for Robinson to show he is the world's best in the 15-a-side game.

Hawley, who in 33 years as a scout discovered 19 future internationals, said: "There will never be another one to match Jason and I'm ready to witness another very special performance.

"This is Jason's stage, I firmly believe he could play rugby union until he's 40. I know he won't do but I believe he could get by because I've never known such a fit, more determined and more dedicated professional.

"His attitude is first-class. He's been a sensation on his move to rugby union and we're going to see another big performance from him.

"Mark my words, he'll start steadily as he always does and then there will be an explosion - his own brand of fireworks. You'll blink an eye and he'll be gone in a flash and he's the man who can lead Sale to victory.

Special

"It only seems like yesterday that he was playing for Hunslet as a 14-year-old. You could see then he had the world at his feet. He is a special talent, the type who only come along once in a lifetime.

"When he went to rugby union, there were so-called experts trying to belittle him and he had to overcome immense bitterness but he has more than proved himself and still has so much to offer.

"I was up out of my chair with his performance in the semi-final.

"As soon as he got the ball I knew he was going to score. The legs can still motor and the upper body strength is as strong as ever.

"He was like a shot from a gun and no-one could catch him.

"Don't be surprised to see more of the same because Twickenham is the perfect stage.

"I've seen many a fine player in my time but this lad stands out. He offers so much, excites the fans and has proved himself in both codes.

"To boot, he's a great guy who deserves any success coming his way."

Hawley also discovered the great Ellery Hanley but it is Robinson who gets his vote as the supreme champion.

And he is convinced that Robinson can again be the stand-out star when he steps on to the Twickenham arena on Saturday.

Occasion

He added: "We've seen it many times in the past so why shouldn't we witness it again on Saturday?

"I'm looking forward to the game. I'm looking forward to watching Jason do what he does best. He was the difference between the sides in the last round and has always been the man for the big occasion.

"Nothing surprises me where Jason is concerned as he is always capable of serving up some magic from somewhere."

Salford legend David Watkins, who came into league following huge success in union, believes Robinson switched codes at just the right time.

"Robinson is a very special talent but possibly he had become a little predictable in rugby league," he said.

"But full credit to him for maximising his skills in both codes.

"I firmly believe he can play a big part in guiding Sale to victory. The Sharks are a very good side, they have a lot of quality and a very good pack.

"They are definitely a force to be reckoned with and you cannot take anything away from them.

"The way they have progressed and what they have achieved reminds me so much of what the Salford club did for rugby league in the 1970s. The comparisons are definitely there and good luck to the Sharks."

Do you think Robinson will lead Sale to victory? Have your say.

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