Newcastle director of rugby Steve Bates admitted the nerves got to Jimmy Gopperth after the New Zealander gifted Leeds two points.
Falcons chief admits new fly-half felt the heat at Headingley
Newcastle director of rugby Steve Bates admitted the nerves got to Jimmy Gopperth after the New Zealander gifted Leeds two points in Sunday's Guinness Premiership clash.
The fly-half, brought into the fold at Kingston Park following the departure of Jonny Wilkinson, missed four shots at goal on his debut as Leeds claimed a 9-9 draw on their return to the top flight.
"Jimmy's kicking record is pretty good but he was nervous about today," Bates said. "I think everybody was a bit apprehensive about what we were going to do.
"But Jimmy will develop as the team develops and will get more confident as he gets used to the Premiership.
"I don't have any preconceived ideas about what he is here for - and I don't think he feels that responsibility at all.
"He's his own man, he's a fantastic player and very confident, so I don't think it has entered his mind that that's where Jonny used to play.
"Jimmy is just a good all-round footballer."
Opportunities
Bates added that while the result was not ideal, there were plenty of reasons to be optimistic for the coming campaign.
"The lads are disappointed because they felt they had enough of the game to win it. But you need to take your opportunities when they are there.
"We were away from home against a Leeds team who had been preparing for this game for the past 19 weeks.
"I think they've done a good job, but is that what we are aiming for?
"No, but you've got to start somewhere."
Leeds director of rugby Andy Key paid tribute to his newly-promoted side, who saw the likes of Andy Gomarsall and captain Marco Wentzel make impressive debuts.
Key said: "All our preparation for the last 19 weeks has been about getting ready for this game.
"Once we knew we were playing Newcastle we felt it was a good opportunity and the boys felt really confident.
"It was not to be, but we will take the two points and move on.
"It was clear to see that we were a side that can compete and I think we looked the more ambitious side on the day."
