http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/ Sat, 04 Sep 2010 00:11:52 +0000 MyBB http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26880 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 22:08:47 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26880
Nearly 17,000 Wiganers, the best supported club in SL had to endure a spectacle hampered by referee Child who struggles to allow the game to flow and completely ignore offside. Nevertheless Wigan scored some good tries and should have had more but for poor passing accuracy. Deserved League Champions, Wigan have been the best team overally throughout the 2010 SL season much to the dismay of St Helens fans like League Lover

Pat Richards equalled the SL points scoring record and but for striking a post would have broken it. Bradford were dire with ball in hand and until late it looked like they would be nilled. Gutsy defence, hopeless attack.]]>
Nearly 17,000 Wiganers, the best supported club in SL had to endure a spectacle hampered by referee Child who struggles to allow the game to flow and completely ignore offside. Nevertheless Wigan scored some good tries and should have had more but for poor passing accuracy. Deserved League Champions, Wigan have been the best team overally throughout the 2010 SL season much to the dismay of St Helens fans like League Lover

Pat Richards equalled the SL points scoring record and but for striking a post would have broken it. Bradford were dire with ball in hand and until late it looked like they would be nilled. Gutsy defence, hopeless attack.]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26879 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 14:09:26 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26879 http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/...field.html]]> http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyleague/...field.html]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26878 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:50:00 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26878 http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10059]]> http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10059]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26877 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:48:53 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26877 http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10058]]> http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10058]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26876 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:48:15 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26876 http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10057]]> http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10057]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26875 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:47:27 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26875 http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10056]]> http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10056]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26874 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:46:16 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26874 http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10055]]> http://www.canadarugbyleague.com/news/ar...p?id=10055]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26873 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:33:37 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26873
1.Webb
2.Smith
3.Delaney
4.Senior
5.Hall
6.Danny
7.Burrow
8.Leu
9.Beuderus
10.Peacock
11.Jamie Jones B
12.Ali Lauatiti
13.Sinfiled

Replacements

14.Diskin
15.Bailey
16.Burgess
17.Watkins
18.Ablett
19.Kirke
20.Ben Jones-Bishop
21. Clarkson
22. McShane
23. Ambler
24.Pitts

Eastwood will not be there nor will donald. Think we could make one big signing and think it will be a front rower, we need somebody who plays long minutes and does not miss many games. Any suggestions?]]>
1.Webb
2.Smith
3.Delaney
4.Senior
5.Hall
6.Danny
7.Burrow
8.Leu
9.Beuderus
10.Peacock
11.Jamie Jones B
12.Ali Lauatiti
13.Sinfiled

Replacements

14.Diskin
15.Bailey
16.Burgess
17.Watkins
18.Ablett
19.Kirke
20.Ben Jones-Bishop
21. Clarkson
22. McShane
23. Ambler
24.Pitts

Eastwood will not be there nor will donald. Think we could make one big signing and think it will be a front rower, we need somebody who plays long minutes and does not miss many games. Any suggestions?]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26872 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:50:55 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26872 http://www.bradfordbulls.co.uk/news/4939...S%20SWITCH
Bradford Bulls have announced the signing of St Helens Prop Forward, Bryn Hargreaves.
Hargreaves, 24, and who started his career at Wigan, has signed a two year contract with the Bulls that will keep him at the Grattan Stadium until the end of the 2012 season. He has made 29 appearances this season for Saints and has played more than 100 games for them in total.
Hargreaves is looking forward to linking up with the Bulls:
"When I spoke to Lee St Hilaire about joining Bradford I was impressed with what I heard and I really think the club's going places. Their current position is not reflective of where they are right now and I think they will soon be back where they belong. As far as I'm concerned, it's time for a change and for a new challenge. I've enjoyed quite a bit of success at St Helens and now I'm hopeful of doing the same at Bradford."
Bulls Chairman Peter Hood is delighted to have captured the signature of Hargreaves.
"Bryn will be a tremendous addition to our Squad next season. He is still very young and his best years are very much ahead of him but he has a wealth of experience through being virtually ever present in a very good St Helens side for the past two years. We are delighted he has chosen to come to the Bulls and he will complement our other Prop Forwards immensley."]]> http://www.bradfordbulls.co.uk/news/4939...S%20SWITCH
Bradford Bulls have announced the signing of St Helens Prop Forward, Bryn Hargreaves.
Hargreaves, 24, and who started his career at Wigan, has signed a two year contract with the Bulls that will keep him at the Grattan Stadium until the end of the 2012 season. He has made 29 appearances this season for Saints and has played more than 100 games for them in total.
Hargreaves is looking forward to linking up with the Bulls:
"When I spoke to Lee St Hilaire about joining Bradford I was impressed with what I heard and I really think the club's going places. Their current position is not reflective of where they are right now and I think they will soon be back where they belong. As far as I'm concerned, it's time for a change and for a new challenge. I've enjoyed quite a bit of success at St Helens and now I'm hopeful of doing the same at Bradford."
Bulls Chairman Peter Hood is delighted to have captured the signature of Hargreaves.
"Bryn will be a tremendous addition to our Squad next season. He is still very young and his best years are very much ahead of him but he has a wealth of experience through being virtually ever present in a very good St Helens side for the past two years. We are delighted he has chosen to come to the Bulls and he will complement our other Prop Forwards immensley."]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26871 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:21:22 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26871
Attacking the free bar with formidable relish following their dismantling of Leeds at Wembley, the Wolves boys were in terrific form.

After a thumping Challenge Cup defence in front of a sell-out crowd, Tony Smith's squad were world superstars for the night, and even one of Britain's most successful pop stars wanted in on the celebrations.

Rumours spread around the venue that Gary Barlow was on his way to add his congratulations.

Cue hysterical excitement amongst the Wolves Wags - and myself if I'm honest. I'll happily admit to a couple of Take That tracks among the guitar thrashings on my running playlist for the Great North Run.

Barlow duly arrived, fashionably late in the evening, and was soon waxing lyrical with victorious captain Adrian Morley alongside the gleaming Challenge Cup trophy.


Presumably Moz was talking Gaz through the finer arts of the ball-and-all tackle, while Lance Todd winner (that's Man of the Match for you non-rugby league diehards) Lee Briers waited in the wings to explain the "40-20", and hammer home how it "Only Takes A Minute" to turn a game. It was one of the more surreal sights of my days involved in rugby league.

The man who wrote and performed 90s Take That classics "Back for Good" and "Relight My Fire" surrounded by a current breed of Warrington players whose message seems to be just that.

Warrington's emergence from the shadows of underachievement is pretty much complete. If they go on to clinch the Grand Final it certainly will be.

Having had the pleasure of celebrating with the Warrington players on Saturday, it was easy to see first-hand how hungry Smith's side is for success. That Wembley win has now whetted the Wolves appetite to do the double.

Wigan, St Helens and even Leeds (if the Rhinos can dust themselves down from their thumping humbling), will all have a huge say in that. And I expect those teams to dominate the Super League Dream Team when it is announced next week.

Journalists and fans alike have been selecting their own teams of the year, with a great deal of debate going on on Twitter this week. BBC Radio 5 live commentator Stuart Pyke has been getting stick for selecting a side devoid of Leeds players, while I've been giving myself a right headache settling on my final 13 for the prestigious prize.

At full-back I see it as a straight choice between St Helens' Paul Wellens and Warrington Cup winner Richie Mathers. I'm a massive fan of Mathers and don't think Leeds should ever have let him go. He has cemented himself at the Wolves this year and can count himself hard done by that he's being forced out by the arrival next season of current Man of Steel Brett Hodgson.

My choice though goes to Wellens, the veteran outstanding at both ends of the field this year, with the 30-year-old legs running in 15 tries in 20 Super League games, including four in a single game on two occasions.

My two wingers are Wigan's Pat Richards and Leeds' Ryan Hall. Warrington's 25-try winger and my (partial) namesake Chris Riley may well oust Hall for the official spot, but Hall's consistent performances and 23 touchdowns in an indifferent Rhinos season give him my vote.

With 27 tries and 132 goals Richards has been simply outstanding and is a leading contender for Man Of Steel.

My centre selections are Warrington's Matt King and Rhinos veteran Keith Senior, just edging out Ryan Atkins and the St Helens-bound Michael Shenton. It seems incredible to think that just 18 months ago Matt King was apologising for a one-fingered salute at his own club's fans after a 60-8 thrashing at Harlequins. His and Warrington's resounding rise to prominence since have gone hand in hand.

At the start of the season I wondered if Senior's 34-year-old body would last the year, but big Keith has missed just one Super League fixture, running in 10 tries for good measure, and has agreed to extend his career at Headingley.

In the halves I've gone for Sam Tomkins and Kyle Eastmond. Tommy Leuluai was tempting, while Briers reminded us of his brilliance at Wembley. But he hasn't played enough (just 17 Super League games), and Danny McGuire's sensational form has come too late in the season.

Wigan and England back Tomkins has excelled both in the halves and more recently at full-back and will run Richards close for Man of Steel. Eastmond has been a catalyst in St Helens late bid for a top two, and even though injury has restricted him to scarcely more involvement than Briers, he just shades it.

The front three picks itself with the evergreen Morley and former Man of Steel James Graham at prop. Graham has underlined his status as one of the world's leading front-rowers this season while Morley has every chance of adding the Man of Steel award to his Challenge Cup winner's medal.

Moz told me earlier this season that he's thrived, and cooled his trademark hothead since taking on the captaincy. I'd argue that his competitive fire is actually more fierce than ever, but the now experienced mind is keeping it in check.

James Roby is my choice at hooker, edging out last year's Lance Todd winner Michael Monaghan.

It is in the back-row that there has been most debate, and I have opted for Joel Tomkins, Ben Westwood and Sean O'Loughlin. Westwood has become almost the complete second rower this year, Tomkins has matured from club player into real international prospect for the Four Nations and the power and guile of O'Loughlin in helping Wigan to the Super League summit has just seen him edge out Kevin Sinfield this time, although I rate Sinfield as the better all-round player.

So my 2010 Super League Dream Team is: Wellens; Richards, King, Senior, Hall; Tomkins, Eastmond; Morley, Roby, Graham, Westwood, J Tomkins, O'Loughlin.

Coach of the Year: Tony Smith. The man is magic.

Agree or disagree with my selections? Please leave your comments below.

A final word this week for Salford stalwart Malcolm Alker, who has been denied a final appearance for the club against Wakefield on Sunday. Having spent his entire career and played over 300 games for the club, the club's captain was desperate for a final fling but has admitted defeat to a neck injury. Alker is a fabulous character and loyal servant and will no doubt continue to be so as he goes into coaching.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/georgeriley/2...y_lea.html]]>
Attacking the free bar with formidable relish following their dismantling of Leeds at Wembley, the Wolves boys were in terrific form.

After a thumping Challenge Cup defence in front of a sell-out crowd, Tony Smith's squad were world superstars for the night, and even one of Britain's most successful pop stars wanted in on the celebrations.

Rumours spread around the venue that Gary Barlow was on his way to add his congratulations.

Cue hysterical excitement amongst the Wolves Wags - and myself if I'm honest. I'll happily admit to a couple of Take That tracks among the guitar thrashings on my running playlist for the Great North Run.

Barlow duly arrived, fashionably late in the evening, and was soon waxing lyrical with victorious captain Adrian Morley alongside the gleaming Challenge Cup trophy.


Presumably Moz was talking Gaz through the finer arts of the ball-and-all tackle, while Lance Todd winner (that's Man of the Match for you non-rugby league diehards) Lee Briers waited in the wings to explain the "40-20", and hammer home how it "Only Takes A Minute" to turn a game. It was one of the more surreal sights of my days involved in rugby league.

The man who wrote and performed 90s Take That classics "Back for Good" and "Relight My Fire" surrounded by a current breed of Warrington players whose message seems to be just that.

Warrington's emergence from the shadows of underachievement is pretty much complete. If they go on to clinch the Grand Final it certainly will be.

Having had the pleasure of celebrating with the Warrington players on Saturday, it was easy to see first-hand how hungry Smith's side is for success. That Wembley win has now whetted the Wolves appetite to do the double.

Wigan, St Helens and even Leeds (if the Rhinos can dust themselves down from their thumping humbling), will all have a huge say in that. And I expect those teams to dominate the Super League Dream Team when it is announced next week.

Journalists and fans alike have been selecting their own teams of the year, with a great deal of debate going on on Twitter this week. BBC Radio 5 live commentator Stuart Pyke has been getting stick for selecting a side devoid of Leeds players, while I've been giving myself a right headache settling on my final 13 for the prestigious prize.

At full-back I see it as a straight choice between St Helens' Paul Wellens and Warrington Cup winner Richie Mathers. I'm a massive fan of Mathers and don't think Leeds should ever have let him go. He has cemented himself at the Wolves this year and can count himself hard done by that he's being forced out by the arrival next season of current Man of Steel Brett Hodgson.

My choice though goes to Wellens, the veteran outstanding at both ends of the field this year, with the 30-year-old legs running in 15 tries in 20 Super League games, including four in a single game on two occasions.

My two wingers are Wigan's Pat Richards and Leeds' Ryan Hall. Warrington's 25-try winger and my (partial) namesake Chris Riley may well oust Hall for the official spot, but Hall's consistent performances and 23 touchdowns in an indifferent Rhinos season give him my vote.

With 27 tries and 132 goals Richards has been simply outstanding and is a leading contender for Man Of Steel.

My centre selections are Warrington's Matt King and Rhinos veteran Keith Senior, just edging out Ryan Atkins and the St Helens-bound Michael Shenton. It seems incredible to think that just 18 months ago Matt King was apologising for a one-fingered salute at his own club's fans after a 60-8 thrashing at Harlequins. His and Warrington's resounding rise to prominence since have gone hand in hand.

At the start of the season I wondered if Senior's 34-year-old body would last the year, but big Keith has missed just one Super League fixture, running in 10 tries for good measure, and has agreed to extend his career at Headingley.

In the halves I've gone for Sam Tomkins and Kyle Eastmond. Tommy Leuluai was tempting, while Briers reminded us of his brilliance at Wembley. But he hasn't played enough (just 17 Super League games), and Danny McGuire's sensational form has come too late in the season.

Wigan and England back Tomkins has excelled both in the halves and more recently at full-back and will run Richards close for Man of Steel. Eastmond has been a catalyst in St Helens late bid for a top two, and even though injury has restricted him to scarcely more involvement than Briers, he just shades it.

The front three picks itself with the evergreen Morley and former Man of Steel James Graham at prop. Graham has underlined his status as one of the world's leading front-rowers this season while Morley has every chance of adding the Man of Steel award to his Challenge Cup winner's medal.

Moz told me earlier this season that he's thrived, and cooled his trademark hothead since taking on the captaincy. I'd argue that his competitive fire is actually more fierce than ever, but the now experienced mind is keeping it in check.

James Roby is my choice at hooker, edging out last year's Lance Todd winner Michael Monaghan.

It is in the back-row that there has been most debate, and I have opted for Joel Tomkins, Ben Westwood and Sean O'Loughlin. Westwood has become almost the complete second rower this year, Tomkins has matured from club player into real international prospect for the Four Nations and the power and guile of O'Loughlin in helping Wigan to the Super League summit has just seen him edge out Kevin Sinfield this time, although I rate Sinfield as the better all-round player.

So my 2010 Super League Dream Team is: Wellens; Richards, King, Senior, Hall; Tomkins, Eastmond; Morley, Roby, Graham, Westwood, J Tomkins, O'Loughlin.

Coach of the Year: Tony Smith. The man is magic.

Agree or disagree with my selections? Please leave your comments below.

A final word this week for Salford stalwart Malcolm Alker, who has been denied a final appearance for the club against Wakefield on Sunday. Having spent his entire career and played over 300 games for the club, the club's captain was desperate for a final fling but has admitted defeat to a neck injury. Alker is a fabulous character and loyal servant and will no doubt continue to be so as he goes into coaching.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/georgeriley/2...y_lea.html]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26870 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:11:10 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26870
The 24-year-old England international is the third high-profile recruit for new coach Royce Simmons following the signings of Castleford Tigers centre Michael Shenton and Manly Sea Eagles prop Josh Perry.

“I am delighted to have signed for the Saints,” said McCarthy-Scarsbrook.

“The club is entering an exciting time in its history and to be a part of that was a great pull.

“Not only will it have a new stadium in 2012 but the quality of the players already in the squad like James Graham and James Roby and the likes of Michael Shenton and Josh Perry means they will be challenging on all fronts.

“I am looking forward to linking up with my new team-mates and continuing to learn under Royce Simmons.”

London-born McCarthy-Scarsbrook, who will make his final appearance for Harlequins against Warrington Wolves tonight, is a straight replacement for Bryn Hargreaves, who is following current coach Mick Potter to Bradford Bulls next season.

“I would like to thank Quins for giving me the chance to play rugby league,” he added.

“I have enjoyed my time there. The fans and players have been excellent with me and I wish them all well in the future.”

McCarthy-Scarsbrook, who made his made his England debut against Wales in 2008, has made close to 100 appearances for the Londoners since 2005.

“We are delighted to have secured Louie’s services for the next four years,” said Saints chief executive Tony Colquitt.

“Understandably, there were a number of clubs chasing a player of Louie and we’re pleased he decided to join the Saints.

“His signing bolsters our pack and gives it some real go-forward next season. At the age of 24, he will continue to develop.”

http://www.therfl.co.uk/~therflc/superle...p?id=18899]]>
The 24-year-old England international is the third high-profile recruit for new coach Royce Simmons following the signings of Castleford Tigers centre Michael Shenton and Manly Sea Eagles prop Josh Perry.

“I am delighted to have signed for the Saints,” said McCarthy-Scarsbrook.

“The club is entering an exciting time in its history and to be a part of that was a great pull.

“Not only will it have a new stadium in 2012 but the quality of the players already in the squad like James Graham and James Roby and the likes of Michael Shenton and Josh Perry means they will be challenging on all fronts.

“I am looking forward to linking up with my new team-mates and continuing to learn under Royce Simmons.”

London-born McCarthy-Scarsbrook, who will make his final appearance for Harlequins against Warrington Wolves tonight, is a straight replacement for Bryn Hargreaves, who is following current coach Mick Potter to Bradford Bulls next season.

“I would like to thank Quins for giving me the chance to play rugby league,” he added.

“I have enjoyed my time there. The fans and players have been excellent with me and I wish them all well in the future.”

McCarthy-Scarsbrook, who made his made his England debut against Wales in 2008, has made close to 100 appearances for the Londoners since 2005.

“We are delighted to have secured Louie’s services for the next four years,” said Saints chief executive Tony Colquitt.

“Understandably, there were a number of clubs chasing a player of Louie and we’re pleased he decided to join the Saints.

“His signing bolsters our pack and gives it some real go-forward next season. At the age of 24, he will continue to develop.”

http://www.therfl.co.uk/~therflc/superle...p?id=18899]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26869 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:25:39 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26869 http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2010/sep...llie-mason]]> http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2010/sep...llie-mason]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26868 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:15:15 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26868
http://www.therfl.co.uk/championship/new...p?id=18894]]>
http://www.therfl.co.uk/championship/new...p?id=18894]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26867 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:58:04 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26867
]]>
]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26866 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:31:29 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26866 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26865 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:57:52 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26865
The club have fought off competition from a number of rival clubs for his signature and today he put pen to paper on the new deal.

Speaking to http://www.hullfc.com, Radford said, “Obviously I am delighted to have secured my future with Hull FC. I have really enjoyed my rugby this year and when you look at the additions we have made to this year’s squad and Richard’s plans for the future it really excites me and I want to be part of that squad, challenging for honours.

“When you look at the injuries particularly to Sean and Richard this year I think it is a credit to the squad that we are where we are in the league and we have got an opportunity on Saturday to take that fourth spot. Hopefully we can get that result and secure that fourth spot at the end of the regular season.”

He added, “I come from the same school as the likes of Mike Forshaw, Jimmy Lowes, Brian McDermott who all played some excellent rugby in the later years of their careers and I believe that I emulate those guys and passionately believe that I have got plenty of rugby left in me”.

The deal will see Radford enter his 5th year of his second spell with Hull FC, having initially starting his career with the Black and Whites in 1997, and head coach Richard Agar is delighted to have retained the services of one of the club’s and the game’s top professionals.

http://www.hullfc.com/hullfc/contents/?p...um=twitter]]>
The club have fought off competition from a number of rival clubs for his signature and today he put pen to paper on the new deal.

Speaking to http://www.hullfc.com, Radford said, “Obviously I am delighted to have secured my future with Hull FC. I have really enjoyed my rugby this year and when you look at the additions we have made to this year’s squad and Richard’s plans for the future it really excites me and I want to be part of that squad, challenging for honours.

“When you look at the injuries particularly to Sean and Richard this year I think it is a credit to the squad that we are where we are in the league and we have got an opportunity on Saturday to take that fourth spot. Hopefully we can get that result and secure that fourth spot at the end of the regular season.”

He added, “I come from the same school as the likes of Mike Forshaw, Jimmy Lowes, Brian McDermott who all played some excellent rugby in the later years of their careers and I believe that I emulate those guys and passionately believe that I have got plenty of rugby left in me”.

The deal will see Radford enter his 5th year of his second spell with Hull FC, having initially starting his career with the Black and Whites in 1997, and head coach Richard Agar is delighted to have retained the services of one of the club’s and the game’s top professionals.

http://www.hullfc.com/hullfc/contents/?p...um=twitter]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26864 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:14:12 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26864
Tickets have been proving extremely popular for the must see clash between Hull FC and Leeds Rhinos on Saturday with the winner clinching the all-important 4th spot.

The East and South Stands have now sold out for the fixture and the West Stand lower is filling up fast.

Therefore, due to further ticket sale demands and the anticipated walk up on the day, the club and SMC have taken the action to open the West Stand Upper tier.

This action normally only takes place for games such as the Hull derby and Test matches, which provides an insight into the enormity of Saturday’s clash between two of the games greatest clubs.


http://www.hullfc.com/hullfc/contents/?p=6716]]>
Tickets have been proving extremely popular for the must see clash between Hull FC and Leeds Rhinos on Saturday with the winner clinching the all-important 4th spot.

The East and South Stands have now sold out for the fixture and the West Stand lower is filling up fast.

Therefore, due to further ticket sale demands and the anticipated walk up on the day, the club and SMC have taken the action to open the West Stand Upper tier.

This action normally only takes place for games such as the Hull derby and Test matches, which provides an insight into the enormity of Saturday’s clash between two of the games greatest clubs.


http://www.hullfc.com/hullfc/contents/?p=6716]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26863 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:35:47 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26863
A month ago I was visiting my dad's grave in Blaydon Cemetery, in Gateshead (south bank of Tyne, west of Metro Centre) on the anniversary of his death, 1st August.

While walking through the cemetery, I came across the grave of David Craven, in the next row to my father's in point of fact, whose headstone states -:

"In loving memory of our dear son David fatally injured in the Halifax v Workington rugby league game February 26th 1949, died 3rd March 1949, aged 24 years."

I thought Halifax fans may wish to know of this.

Having checked on line I can find no accounts of the game.

Yours in sport,

ian cusack (newcastle)]]>
A month ago I was visiting my dad's grave in Blaydon Cemetery, in Gateshead (south bank of Tyne, west of Metro Centre) on the anniversary of his death, 1st August.

While walking through the cemetery, I came across the grave of David Craven, in the next row to my father's in point of fact, whose headstone states -:

"In loving memory of our dear son David fatally injured in the Halifax v Workington rugby league game February 26th 1949, died 3rd March 1949, aged 24 years."

I thought Halifax fans may wish to know of this.

Having checked on line I can find no accounts of the game.

Yours in sport,

ian cusack (newcastle)]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26862 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:32:36 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26862
With just one game of the regular season remaining, Brian Noble’s side head into the Racecourse clash knowing only a win can secure them a play-off spot.

Crusaders currently occupy ninth in the table, one place behind Castleford, who face high-flying St Helens on the same day.

Both teams are on 22 points, with Castleford having a superior points difference meaning Crusader’s must win to give themselves a chance of finishing in the top eight.

That would be a near miraculous achievement for the Wrexham club, who have transformed themselves from basement boys to play-off contenders this season.

“It’s important that we get a good crowd against Hull KR,” scrum-half Sammut said.

“We’ve had some great crowds in Wrexham this year; they’ve really taken to the sport and got behind the guys. From our perspective we’d like to see more people at the Racecourse Ground because it gives us the extra edge.

“When we hear the chants going we get a huge buzz from it, it gives us that extra gear. We are really looking for the fans to get behind us this Saturday.

“We like to entertain the fans and give them something to cheer for; we want to see the Racecourse packed out because that will give us a huge boost if we want to get to the finals.

“Finishing in the top eight would be massive for us, the club, fans and the sport in Wales.”

Sammut missed Crusaders last outing against St Helens with a dead-leg, and will be looking to return against Hull KR this Saturday.

It’s a game the mercurial scrum-half thrives on. His high-risk, all-action style of play has made him a fan favourite since he arrived at the Racecourse in May from Penrith Panthers.

The 23-year-old said. “With the big games, you always want to be part of it; you want to be out there sweating blood with your team mates so it was disappointing to miss out against St Helens.

“I thought we played very well for large parts of the game. I’m itching to get back on the field and hopefully I can make a difference against Hull KR.

“There’s defiantly a confidence and a belief amongst the boys that we can do it. We don’t talk too much about it but it is defiantly a target of ours to make the finals.

“We need to make sure we play our best football and that we work hard this Saturday against Hull KR. They are a very dangerous side, they’ve got some great attackers as well as some big boys in the forwards so we realise we will have to be at our best on Saturday.”

Saturday’s clash throws up a mouth-watering clash between Sammut and his opposite number Michael Dobson.

Former Catalans and Wigan scrum-half Dobson, 24, has had another stand-out season for Justin Morgan’s side.

“Michael Dobson is a very important player for them,” he said.

“He’s got a great kicking game and he organises the team very well. We need to shut down his options, especially defensively because he is a very clever player.”

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/20...-27167669/]]>
With just one game of the regular season remaining, Brian Noble’s side head into the Racecourse clash knowing only a win can secure them a play-off spot.

Crusaders currently occupy ninth in the table, one place behind Castleford, who face high-flying St Helens on the same day.

Both teams are on 22 points, with Castleford having a superior points difference meaning Crusader’s must win to give themselves a chance of finishing in the top eight.

That would be a near miraculous achievement for the Wrexham club, who have transformed themselves from basement boys to play-off contenders this season.

“It’s important that we get a good crowd against Hull KR,” scrum-half Sammut said.

“We’ve had some great crowds in Wrexham this year; they’ve really taken to the sport and got behind the guys. From our perspective we’d like to see more people at the Racecourse Ground because it gives us the extra edge.

“When we hear the chants going we get a huge buzz from it, it gives us that extra gear. We are really looking for the fans to get behind us this Saturday.

“We like to entertain the fans and give them something to cheer for; we want to see the Racecourse packed out because that will give us a huge boost if we want to get to the finals.

“Finishing in the top eight would be massive for us, the club, fans and the sport in Wales.”

Sammut missed Crusaders last outing against St Helens with a dead-leg, and will be looking to return against Hull KR this Saturday.

It’s a game the mercurial scrum-half thrives on. His high-risk, all-action style of play has made him a fan favourite since he arrived at the Racecourse in May from Penrith Panthers.

The 23-year-old said. “With the big games, you always want to be part of it; you want to be out there sweating blood with your team mates so it was disappointing to miss out against St Helens.

“I thought we played very well for large parts of the game. I’m itching to get back on the field and hopefully I can make a difference against Hull KR.

“There’s defiantly a confidence and a belief amongst the boys that we can do it. We don’t talk too much about it but it is defiantly a target of ours to make the finals.

“We need to make sure we play our best football and that we work hard this Saturday against Hull KR. They are a very dangerous side, they’ve got some great attackers as well as some big boys in the forwards so we realise we will have to be at our best on Saturday.”

Saturday’s clash throws up a mouth-watering clash between Sammut and his opposite number Michael Dobson.

Former Catalans and Wigan scrum-half Dobson, 24, has had another stand-out season for Justin Morgan’s side.

“Michael Dobson is a very important player for them,” he said.

“He’s got a great kicking game and he organises the team very well. We need to shut down his options, especially defensively because he is a very clever player.”

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/20...-27167669/]]> http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26861 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:31:29 +0000 http://www.rugbyleagueforums.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?tid=26861
The 25-year-old has scored 15 tries in 33 appearances for Rovers since joining from Wigan, his hometown club, two years ago.

Colbon's current deal was due to expire at the end of the current campaign but he will now remain at Craven Park for another year.

"It's good to get it all sorted and I'm happy to stay here," he told the club's official website. "I've had a good couple of years here now.

"I'm a bit disappointed with how this year has panned out with injuries but hopefully I can have a good end to the year and a good third year.

Hull KR coach Justin Morgan is delighted to have retained the services of Colbon, who has managed six tries in his 11 appearances this season.

"Liam is an important player for us," said Morgan. "He's very solid defensively and he makes good yards for us carrying the ball out from our own end."

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,1...38,00.html]]>
The 25-year-old has scored 15 tries in 33 appearances for Rovers since joining from Wigan, his hometown club, two years ago.

Colbon's current deal was due to expire at the end of the current campaign but he will now remain at Craven Park for another year.

"It's good to get it all sorted and I'm happy to stay here," he told the club's official website. "I've had a good couple of years here now.

"I'm a bit disappointed with how this year has panned out with injuries but hopefully I can have a good end to the year and a good third year.

Hull KR coach Justin Morgan is delighted to have retained the services of Colbon, who has managed six tries in his 11 appearances this season.

"Liam is an important player for us," said Morgan. "He's very solid defensively and he makes good yards for us carrying the ball out from our own end."

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,1...38,00.html]]>