TOM Sly insists he is loving every second after arriving at Southend Saxons from Australia.

The talented full-back has previously played both codes of the game Down Under.

But he jumped at the chance to come to Warners Bridge.

“It all happened very quickly,” said the Australian.

“I was playing rugby league for Mackay Hutters.

“I finished up there and was talking to my fiancé about seeing what we could do next.

“I went back to rugby thinking there would be more opportunities and through mutual contacts messaged Blair Morgan who had contacts here.

“Before you know it I’m on the blower to Wardy (director of rugby Josh Ward) for 45 minutes.

“It was awesome and I just said to my fiancé lets do it.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to come over here so it’s been awesome ever since.”

Sly has helped table-topping Southend win both of the matches he has played since his arrival.

And he already feels settled in his new surroundings.

“I’m loving it,” said Sly.

“We rocked up here on a Tuesday for training and everyone was just ‘hey how you doing?’

“It was hard to remember names but it’s been awesome.

“I know it’s the fourth or fifth oldest rugby club in the world and it’s so cool to be here with all that history.

“It’s been unreal.”

And Sly has also been impressed by his new team-mates.

“There are some serious footy players here,” said Sly.

“The main chat has always been about promotion and that’s the main goal.

“That’s the plan anyway but I’ve been loving it and it’s been really good.”

Southend will be aiming for a sixth win in a row when they host bottom of the table Chelmsford in Regional Two Anglia tomorrow.

And Sly feels ready to make an impact after arriving in the country for the first time.

“I have never been to Europe before,” said Sly.

“It was a 28 hour flight and you get here jetlagged wondering what the hell is going on but everyone has been welcoming.

“It was daunting but it’s been made much easier because Wardy and I have always been in contact.

“I’m looking forward to Saturday’s game too.”

However, there is only one thing Sly is already starting to miss.

“Vegemite on toast mate,” he laughed.

“People have said Marmite but I haven’t tried it yet.

“I’m not homesick or anything though.

“A lot of my family and mates have plans to come over and will use me being here as an excuse to get over which is great.”