HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS coach Luke Robinson reckons new boy Chris Patolo is ready to build on his exploits in Australia – and the powerful forward agrees.
The 24-year-old from Sydney came through the ranks at Canterbury Bulldogs and played 27 times for them in the NRL over four seasons before moving to Manly Sea Eagles.
While Patolo was unable to break into the first team last year, he was a regular in their New South Wales Cup side.
He averaged 92 metres per game and recorded a 96.5 percent tackle efficiency rate, and Robinson likes what he has seen of him in pre-season training.
Along with his compatriot Asher O’Donnell, signed from Brisbane Tigers, and France international Mathieu Cozza, who has moved from Wakefield, Patolo provides new options for the coach, who has lost experienced prop Oliver Wilson to Wigan.
While he has mainly played prop, Robinson reckons Patolo’s leg speed means he could also be useful in the second row, providing welcome versatility.
“Chris has caught the eye so far,” he said.
“He is big and uncompromising but he also moves around the field really well.
“We’ve looked for younger players who want to learn and improve, and we’ve brought in lads who tick those boxes.”
Patolo said: “I’m always ready to have a dig and work hard. I like to think I carry the ball hard and strong, and that I don’t back away from a challenge.
“I’m very grateful to the club and to Robbo for allowing me to come over here and take the next step in my career.
“I’ve settled nicely, and while I hadn’t played with any of the boys before, soon after I signed, some of them reached out to me, which was great.”
Huddersfield Giants hand new deal to rising starlet Lewis JaggerTalking Rugby League: Can Huddersfield Giants improve their fortunes?Tony Smith reveals what set Hull KR apart from his other Super League clubsGeorge Flanagan signs new long-term Huddersfield Giants dealEx-Huddersfield Giants forward Jack Murchie joins new club