RISING Giants star Michael Lawrence is hoping his time with the elite England Academy will be a taste of things to come.

The 17-year-old utility back is expected to retain his place in the starting line-up for Friday’s second international clash against the Australian Institute of Sport at Wakefield.

The former Newsome Panther was among the tryscorers as England were narrowly beaten 28-26 by the tourists in the opener at Warrington on Friday night.

And with Lawrence again ready to start on the wing – he is pencilled in to be a centre for the Giants – he is hoping to help his country secure victory and end an incredible year on a high.

“I’ve had a fantastic season, and I hope it can get even better on Friday night,” said Lawrence, who is combining his Super League training with the Giants with studying for a diploma in Sports and Exercise at Huddersfield New College.

“We really should have beaten them last week and I’m sure we can do it this time around.

“And I would love to celebrate success with England to round off the best year ever.

“So far this year, I’ve signed full-time for the Giants, played for Yorkshire against Lancashire in the Academy County of Origin, made my Super League debut for the Giants at Warrington and then played for England Academy.

“To beat the Australians would round all that off perfectly.

“And it would also put me in great mood for the rest of pre-season training.

“I’ve loved working with the Super League squad, and I just hope I can kick on from here and make sure I get more first-team chances next year.

“That’s my main aim.”