Hanro Liebenberg was all smiles after his debut appearance for Leicester Tigers, which ended in a 20-point victory over Exeter Chiefs at Welford Road.
The back-rower played 80 minutes in the 27-7 win in front of more than 13,000 fans under lights at his new home and impressed with a physical, hard-working performance.
Speaking post-match, the South African-born Liebenberg couldn't hide his delight after a first-up win at Welford Road but equally as modest in the appraisal of his own match and quick to praise his new team-mates for their efforts.
"It can't probably get much better than that ... I'm super stoked," a smiling Liebenberg told LTTV.
"The guys really put in a great effort, they showed some character ... and scored the tries when we needed to."
When quizzed on whether it was the style of game he hoped to continue to be a part of in his first season at the club, the back-rower did not hesitate.
"Definitely, I think the Exeter guys brought the physicality and I think we matched them quite well," he said.
"It suits our team's game, if we can stop teams momentum, and play on the front foot."
Liebenberg has enjoyed one of world rugby's best crowds as a player for the Bulls in Super Rugby over the past five seasons, but seemed to enjoy his first "crazy" appearance in front of the Welford Road faithful.
"It was crazy, walking out there for the warm-up with all of the cheering," said Liebenberg.
"It was an amazing atmosphere."
According to 24-year-old, the dominant display was the result of a long pre-season.
"We worked hard through the pre-season, this was the first time we can show what we have worked on," Liebenberg said.
The Tigers flanker also added that the coaching staff were "pleased" with the display.
"They were pleased, why wouldn't they be?" he said.
"The guys put in a good effort."
One of three players to make their debut for the club in the match, Liebenberg praised his fellow newcomers for their displays in the win - including Noel Reid, who claimed the BT Sport man of the match for his performance at fly-half.
"I think Noel was outstanding ... the debutants did their part," said Liebenberg.
Despite enjoying the first up win, Liebenberg was quick to point out it was a first step on a long journey this season and most importantly, a chance to put in place the base for a strong year ahead - which the new recruit is looking forward to - and believes there is much improvement in the squad.
"I'm just looking forward to the season and getting on with it," he said.
"We want to put stuff in place now ... for the Premiership coming.
"We will definitely step up our game again."
