MIKE Stanley labelled playing the final 12 minutes for Samoa against England on Saturday as an ‘amazing’ experience.

The former Southend fly-half, who is from Thurrock, came on towards the end of his side’s 29-8 defeat at Twickenham.

But, despite the result, Stanley loved lining up against Stuart Lancaster’s side.

“It was just an amazing experience playing against England at Twickenham,” said Stanley, who was playing for Southend as recent as last season.

“There aren't many stadiums in the world that can rival Twickenham so I'm just really grateful to have been a part of it and it’s certainly a day and a match I will never forget.”

Stanley had started Samoa’s previous game and kicked 13 points in their 23-13 win against Canada.

And he was thrilled to follow that up against England where he came up against some familiar faces, Owen Farrell, Ben Youngs and Courtney Lawes.

“Those three are all old friends of mine so it was awesome to play against them at this level,” said Stanley, who had his family watching from the stands.

“The last few weeks have just been amazing and this just tops it all off.”

Stanley, who has played his club rugby in New Zealand for the past year, qualifies to play for Samoa through his father.

But the former Gable Hall pupil admitted that being brought up in England had made Saturday’s game even more exciting for him.

“It was a very special game for me because I'm a very proud Samoan but I’m also very proud of my English side as this is my home and where I grew up,” said Stanley, who also represented England as a junior.

“I just hope there's more tests to come and that I can remain part of the Samoan set up to enjoy more matches and occasions like Saturday.”