Brothers in arms at Fax
Published Date:
03 October 2008
By James Roberts
HALIFAX have re-signed rookie back rower Andy Bowman for 2009 - and snapped up his teenage brother Anthony from Super League giants Wigan.
Bowman senior made six senior starts for Fax this year, scoring a try on his debut against Batley.
"Andy did well for us whenever he came in, and he was probably a bit unlucky not to have played more games," said Fax boss Matt Calland.
"He's still developing physically, and a lot will depend on the time he spends in the gym this winter, but I expect him to play a lot more matches next season.
"Richard Varkulis has gone to Widnes, which opens up a place for someone who can play in the back row or the centre, and I want Andy to compete for that role.
"He's a long way from being the finished article, but he's got a lot of natural ability."
While Bowman senior was widely expected to remain at the Shay for another year, it is the landing of 16 year old Anthony that represents something of a coup.
Fax had made a bid to sign the talented stand off or loose forward on a professional contract earlier this year, but the Siddal junior opted to start his career at the JJB Stadium.
But Bowman had a change of heart after making just a single appearance for the Warriors' under 18s side and has successfully negotiated a release to allow him to join his hometown club.
"Anthony's a young kid who has plenty of potential and I think everyone at the club is glad he is finally here," said Calland.
"He's a local lad, really skilful, and we are very happy to give him a chance.
"He's proud to play for his hometown club and proud to play with his brother.
"We'll look to develop him over the next year or so and with the right attitude and plenty of hard work and I am sure he will do very well for us."
WHITEHAVEN full back Gary Broadbent, the former Widnes player, will join hometown club Barrow for 2009.
Huddersfield have signed Workington hooker Shaun Lunt.
The full article contains 359 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
03 October 2008 2:07 PM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Halifax