Sheffield Eagles' new boy cuts through immigration red tape

It might have been a team performance to forget, but new signing Corey Makelim finally ended four weeks of frustration after putting on the Sheffield Eagles shirt last Sunday.
Sheffield Eagles' Corey Makelim in action against Leigh.Sheffield Eagles' Corey Makelim in action against Leigh.
Sheffield Eagles' Corey Makelim in action against Leigh.

Makelim made his long awaited bow in difficult circumstances - they were comprehensively beaten by Leigh Centurions at the OLP. But for the USA international his appearance ended weeks of delays as red tape resulted in him kicking his heels during a time when injury and illness have taken a grip on Mark Aston’s side.

Makelim is looking to acclimatise quickly, knowing a crucial game against fellow struggles Rochdale is on the horizon.

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“The delay was a little frustrating, I’ve had to be patient,” Makelim said. “I knew it would be sorted but I’ve had to wait. I’m glad to be over here now, and now it is sorted I can fully concentrate on my game.

“I’m still trying to get used the weather as I’ve only been over here for seven days. I’m still getting used to the surroundings and the way we play but I’m pleased to be here.

“I’ve enjoyed Sheffield, I’ve been lucky because I know Mark Offerdahl and Josh Toole well, and I’m living with Max Garcia who is a good cook so that has made it an easy transition for me.”

The full-back will have easier games during his stay with the Eagles, with an inspired Leigh passing 70 points in what was generally a one-sided contest.

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The Eagles did have their moments, and Maklelim believes the spell just before and after the interval, when the hosts ran in three tries, proves they have the ammunition to hurt teams if they can produce it on a more consistent basis.

“Leigh are a good side and it was hard for us, especially when they were scoring back-to-back tries but I thought that we stuck in there and turned it around a little after half-time,” he said.

“If we can start more games like we did at the start of the second-half then we’ll give ourselves a better chance.

“I was pretty pleased with how I played but I know that there is plenty to work on. I think there are things we’ll have to work on as a team, we are still gelling together but there is a good feel about the place and I’m happy to be here.”