Trialist in the frame as Eagles boss keeps his options open

Director of rugby Mark Aston is still keeping his options open as he looks to add at least one more new face to his Sheffield Eagles squad.
Eagles chief Mark AstonEagles chief Mark Aston
Eagles chief Mark Aston

Aston made 10 new signings during the close season but his quest to add another half-back has stalled in recent weeks, after the Eagles missed out on Aussie Beau Henry.

Aston admitted he is prepared to bide his time in his pursuit of his targets, but confirmed his interest in a trialist, believed to be former Bradford man Rhys Jacks, who has been training with the Eagles.

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“There are things happening behind the scenes,” Aston told The Star.

“We have someone training with us who is looking to cement a place in our squad. He has trained with us once or twice, so there has been some movement there.

“What I will say is that we are really happy with this group. We have some young players here who are really standing up and I have been impressed with what I have seen.”

With a squad of 20, including a host of versatile operators, Aston is in no panic as his side prepare for their first home game of the campaign against Halifax this Friday.

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His current half-back duo of son Cory and new signing Dave Hewitt both set a high standard in the opening day victory over Workington Town.

Aston Jnr capped a solid display with two tries as the Eagles made light work of what was expected to be a tricky opening fixture, whilst Hewitt is looking to reignite a career that saw him draw many an admiring glance during his time with St. Helens.

“We have plenty of experience in the pack, but we have inexperience in the half back areas,” Aston reiterated.

“I am happy with what we have but we are not sitting back. We are looking and we are talking to people and that will continue.”

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Aston confirmed that there were no injuries going into the season curtain raiser against Workington.

New signings Elliot Minchella and Garry Lo were left out of the 17 man squad, but the Eagles chief revealed their absence was due to selection, with both set to be in contention this Friday.

Meanwhile, preparations for the first home game of the season with Halifax have been stepped up.

The Eagles have moved swiftly to upgrade their new home at Bawtry Road with the planned covered temporary stand being installed on Monday.