Fax sign teenage half back Punchard on two year deal

Halifax have signed a fourth player from their re-formed reserve side, with England Lions Youth half back Morgan Punchard penning a two year deal that will tie him to the club until the end of 2018.

The 17 year old Lock Lane amateur has impressed in the club’s second string and was rumoured to be a target for a number of other clubs, including hometown outfit Castleford Tigers.

“Having Morgan choose us over what would appear to be more glamorous competition is testament to the overall welfare and experience he will gain with us,” said Fax chairman Michael Steele.

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“Morgan’s parents spent a lot of time carefully considering this before reaching an agreement and we are delighted they see us as the club that can best nurture his obvious talent.”

Punchard played for England Lions Youth in their 24–4 victory over Ireland in May and will officially remain an amateur until December.

“This is further evidence that our decision to run a reserves side was the right one,” said Fax coach Richard Marshall, who has already secured Punchard’s teammates James Woodburn-Hall - currently on loan at London Skolars - Elliot Morris and Brandon Moore on similar deals.

“Morgan is the fourth player we have signed from that grade and I am looking forward to working with him as he develops into the fine player I know he can be.

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“I’d also like to mention the hard work the Supporters’ Trust have undertaken in raising the funds we needed to run the side.

“They can be proud that their efforts are paying off and I thank them for that.”