Waratahs rising star Max Jorgensen admits Friday's two-try performance was a 'dream come true' as the 18-year-old reflects on his Super Rugby debut.
Jorgensen was the shining light out of the Waratahs' 31-25 defeat to the ACT Brumbies, announcing himself to the rest of the competition in a scintillating performance.
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He became the second-youngest debutant behind Kurltey Beale, however, looked like a seasoned pro when he beat Wallabies stars Allan Alaalatoa and Rob Valetini to score his first Super Rugby try in the first 15 minutes.
Jorgensen finished the game with a double, three tackle busts and four clean breaks as father and former cross-code star Peter looked in with pride.
“Feels unreal to put on the sky blue, especially in front of my friends and family. It’s amazing,” the quietly spoken teen said after the match to reporters.
“…(It’s a) dream come true I was just trying to think it was just another game, don’t get too fazed by the crowd. Just play my footy, play my game.”
Jorgensen's signature was hotly contested, pursued by several league clubs, including the Sydney Roosters.
However, he explained the love of the game is what ultimately swayed Jorgensen to sign with the Waratahs and Rugby Australia.
“It’s always been the favourite in my eyes,” Jorgensen said.
“I don’t know something just clicked and I just wanted to stay in union for the love of it.”
Jorgensen's breakout performance didn't surprise Wallabies teammate Jed Holloway, who got a first-hand account of his talents at training at the start of the year.
“I was in the other team against him, I think he scored two tries against us and tore us to bits on counter,” he recalled.
“Just his subtle footwork that he’s got, you wouldn’t say he’s a big man but he’s slippery as you saw running through Allan (Alaalatoa) and Rob for that first try, and just his speed’s a game changer.
“He’s a kid for the future.”
"He’s good," Brumbies captain Allan Alaalatoa added, admitting Jorgensen 'got him good' for the first try.
"[Rugby Australia] have done well there to get him down to NSW. It was awesome for him to get his debut and I am sure we are going to see a lot more of him going forward.”
