Mark McCall lavish praises on Owen Farrell and Vunipola brothers after Saracens farewell

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall had high praises for the outgoing Owen Farrell as their Premiership campaign came to an end with a semi-final defeat to Northampton Saints.

Alex Lewington and Lucio Cinti scored tries for Saracens but Fin Smith's 17-point contribution meant Northampton Saints sealed a 22-20 victory.

The defeat at Cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Friday meant Farrell along with Mako and Billy Vunipola brothers have played their final game for the club and McCall paid high tributes for their star performers.

“We all feel very emotional about this being their last games,” McCall said.

“They’ve been incredible for the club on and off the field.

“They’ve had some wonderful moments over the years, and some tough moments. The tough moments have made the good ones better. It’s been a hell of a journey this last ten to fifteen years.

“I just feel lucky to have come here when they were here. To watch them as 18, 19, 20 year olds – if you saw Mako on his first day at Saracens, you wouldn’t have thought he would go on three British and Irish Lions tours and win 60-odd caps for England. Same with Billy, really.

“It took Owen time as well. It didn’t happen immediately for him. To watch them develop as people over the period has been great to watch.”