Brumbies halfback Ryan Lonergan says he learned the hard way that you have to earn every Super Rugby cap, after starring in his maiden start on Friday.
Lonergan made his Super Rugby debut in 2017 against the Chiefs, playing 15 minutes off the bench, and looked like taking the next step in his career.
However, his second season with the Brumbies didn’t quite pan out that way.
The then Junior Wallabies halfback is behind Matt Lucas and Joe Powell, and failing to add to that single Super Rugby outing.
In 2019, Lonergan made five Super Rugby appearances but it wasn’t until Friday afternoon, two and a half years after his debut that he made his first start.
Speaking after that debut start, the 21-year-old admitted that there was a sense of entitlement that crept into his approach after that debut.
“I wasn't really happy (in 2018) because I thought I went alright in the 20s and I wanted to get a bit of game time and it didn't happen,” he said.
“I wasn't happy with myself, I got a bit complacent I thought throughout that year.
“So, last year I decided to have a bit more of a crack in and around training and stuff, just didn't take a back seat.
“Earned myself a couple of spots and then this year's been the same, just stepping it up another level.
“If that brings me a couple more starts then hopefully a good season, then that's just a positive for me.”
Lonergan certainly took his starting opportunity against the Sunwolves on Friday, scoring a try and laying the platform for the Brumbies attack in an impressive performance.
His five-from-five return off the boot for the Brumbies was a showing of the goal kicking skill Lonergan has, something Australian rugby teams have often lacked in recent times.
Lonergan said goal kicking had always been something he focused on and he hoped that it could help push his case for more caps.
“I enjoy kicking goals but it does become, it's very important in the game so I do work on it quite a lot, it's something that kind of comes natural to me,” he said.
“It's an important part of the game and then if that can push me into the starting team then that's a positive for me.
“Noah's had a couple of tough kicks, tries haven't been in the greatest spot for him this year but he's a good kicker as well and he's really been improving over the preseason and I back him if he gets the nod as well.”
As Lonergan presses his claims for more starts, he will be trying to topple good mate Joe Powell in the process.
“I think that's just it, that happens all through the team and he'll always be a good mate of mine and we both know we're both competing for that spot,” he said.
“I think we've just got to cop that on the chin, whoever gets it, and then just do your job coming off the bench and then there's also Finesy coming up as well and I'm good mates with him. it's all just competition, we understand it.”
Brumbies coach Dan McKellar hinted that Lonergan’s goal kicking could be a factor when looking at selection for next weekend’s clash with the Waratahs.
“With any selection when it’s tight and Lonners has done a really good job for us off the bench in that 20-25 minute mark, closing out games,” he said.
“His clearance game, his kicking game are very good, his goal kicking is outstanding but then Joey Powell's been very good as well and Al touched on Issak Fines.”
The Brumbies take on the Waratahs on Sunday March 16 at GIO Stadium Canberra, kicking off at 4:05pm AEDT, LIVE on Foxtel, Kayo Sports and via RUGBY.com.au RADIO. Buy tickets here.
