ONE of the proudest people watching Mathew Tait's England debut in the Millennium Stadium on Saturday will be the teacher who has guided him through his sensational sporting journey.

Rugby coach Martin Pepper watched Mathew excel at all sports at Barnard Castle School, but always knew that playing for England was his true destiny.

A former Harlequins back row, Mr Pepper spotted Mathew's special talents in his early schooldays and took a keen interest in his development.

Only a few months ago, the young player was busy juggling the demands of revising for his A-levels, an Easter trip to South Africa with a young England side and training sessions with Newcastle Falcons.

He also helped the Barnard Castle team to their second Twickenham appearance in the final of the Daily Mail cup, scoring a spectacular try to get them there with an 80- metre sprint.

Mr Pepper said: "I always thought it was his destiny to play for England and I am thrilled for him.

"He has a special talent but he is a perfectionist who always wants to improve. He is determined to succeed and just wants to do well.

"He wants to be the best player England have got, always has done.

"The most striking thing about him was his pure pace. He could have been a sprinter but chose a different path.

"As well as his tremendous speed he has the magical ability to change a game.

"That makes him very exciting to watch. There is a real buzz when he gets the ball.

"At the same time Mathew is very modest and that is a tremendous tribute to his parents who have supported him all the way.

"He is a great flag bearer for the school and everybody is proud of him and wants him to do well," he said.

"I just hope he enjoys the whole experience, the build up and the game itself, and is left wanting more in the future."