The 22-year-old was a half-time replacement for Wales against Samoa in the crucial Pool D clash of RWC 2011, replacing James Hook at full-back and it was his dazzling run from the back that set up Shane Williams’ crucial try in Hamilton.
Doubts were raised this summer whether Halfpenny would overcome a persistent foot injury in time to take his place in the game’s showpiece tournament, but those doubts were firmly silenced by his performance on the weekend and he is looking to build on that first World Cup showing.
“It’s been tough coming through the injury but it was fantastic to get some game time on the weekend,” he said.
“Being here at a World Cup means everything to me and its a dream come true, so to get the call and to make an impact was great – I just cant wait for the next game.
“I love pulling on the Welsh jersey and it felt good to get on the paddock. I didn’t see James (Hook) get injured so I was quite surprised when I got the call and obviously the nerves kicked in straight away.
Whilst the performance may not as been at the level desired by the squad Halfpenny was keen to emphasis the focus is on winning.
“A win is a win and we move onto the next game, that is how we have to look at it,” he added.
“Every game counts and we have to win them all now and we had to get that win on the weekend.Obviously we will take a look at the video, take the positives and move forward but we will happily move on from Sunday.”
