Halifax HRLFC - New deals for Fax pair
HALIFAX have extended the contracts of two more players ahead of Sunday's Co-operative Championship trip to Gateshead, with goal-kicking winger Lee Paterson and back rower Mark Roberts both penning new deals.
Paterson, who joined Fax midway through 2007 from Rochdale, has signed for two years, with Roberts agreeing a one year extension until the end of 2010.
For Paterson, the length of the contract is recognition of a breakthrough season.
He has developed into one of the competition's top marksmen after making a stunning debut with the boot against Batley at the end of April.
The former Warrington junior, who had never kicked in a competitive match at any level, struck 12 from 12 to finish within sight of Bruce Burton's club record of 14, a mark that has stood since the 1970s, and has now kicked 70 goals this year.
"Almost by accident, Lee has developed into one of the best kickers in the competition," said Fax chief executive Graham Clay. "His success rate was well over 90 per cent at one point and I'd guess it's still somewhere in the 80s, which is outstanding.
"He fits the mould of the kind of winger we want at the club - big, strong and fast - and we're delighted he's staying with us."
Roberts, who first arrived in 2007, returned to the club over the winter after seeing his form nosedive during 12 months with Championship rivals Leigh.
"Mark obviously didn't have the best of years at Leigh and I think he's come back to us a much hungrier player," said Clay. "He's got great utility value and always gives 100 per cent wherever he plays.
"I think it's also important to mention that Mark, like Lee, is a good person as well as a good player.
"They both bring a lot to the club off the field too."
Former Australia Test centre Matt Gidley has ended speculation over his future by signing a new 12-month contract to stay at St Helens for next season.
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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