Hunslet have snapped up two more talented young local players following impressive recent trials.
Prop Spencer Darley and threequarter/fullback Alfie Goddard have put pen to paper for the rest of the season – and both will be in the mix for selection for the Betfred League 1 fixture at London Skolars on Saturday.
Darley, 24, has joined Hunslet following spells at, most recently, Keighley Cougars and Featherstone Rovers; he previously spent several years with Leeds Rhinos.
A product of crack amateur outfit Stanningley, he initially joined Hunslet on trial during the winter, featuring in the pre-season friendly win over Salford Red Devils Reserves.
He says: “Having come to the club a bit late, after `Killer’ had pretty much established his squad, I stepped back before contacting him again regarding a return.
“I’m delighted to have signed a contract to the end of the campaign, and am determined to make my mark. I aim to fully contribute to the cause with committed defence, direct running and a readiness to make the most of on-pitch opportunities when they arise. For example, I enjoy staying close to the ruck, supporting our hookers when they get the chance to dart out from the play-the-ball, and taking on the defence against the grain.”
Goddard, who has been at the South Leeds Stadium for the best part of a month after having been contacted by assistant coach Danny Burton, is another young local player that Kilshaw was keen to add to his roster. A product of Lock Lane, with whom he has featured in the Impact Performance National Conference League, he has spent time in Australia with Mullumbimby Giants and has also had stints with Leeds Rhinos, Castleford Tigers and Bradford Bulls. Just 23, he nevertheless has plenty of experience under his belt and will bring youthful exuberance and valuable know-how to the collective cause. He says: “Danny suggested I test myself at a higher level and I agree with him. Any player should want to operate at the highest level he can. I’ve been lucky to have been exposed to high professional standards, which I can see are very much in place at Hunslet.
“It’s all happened quite quickly since I arrived for training, and I didn’t think twice about signing after being offered a contract. We’ve a young squad and I aim to bring my experience to the cause. I want to play in as many games as I can and help us gain promotion.”
Kilshaw said: “Spencer, who has been with us since pre-season, backed himself to train and trial and showed up well in the Salford game. The stop start nature of our league campaign has meant chances have been limited but as the grind of the season kicks in properly I will be expecting him to really push for a regular place in the 17.”
He continued: “After losing Nico Rizzelli and Rob Worrincy for different reasons, we have been looking for a quality outside back. Danny let me know of Alfie’s availability and we invited him down for a trial. He has looked really good in training and, with a few clubs interested in him, we made sure we secured his signature swiftly.”
