Young guns primed at Sheffield Eagles

The young guns played an instrumental role as the Eagles recorded back-to-back victories in their first two Championship fixtures.

What they lack in years is made up for by creativity and their impressive start has not been missed by director Mark Aston.

Hewitt, 19, has arrived during the close season from Super League big hitters St. Helens, whilst Aston’s son Cory has been developing under the tutelage of the Eagles’ staff.

“Cory is developing and week-by-week he is starting to become that player I need him to be,” Aston said. “It is exactly the same with Dave Hewitt. He has come in here as a relative unknown and he is starting to guide this team to where it needs to be. That is a credit to the two lads.”

Last season the Eagles chief mixed up the half-back pot with the experienced duo of Dominic Brambani and Kyle Briggs, alongside Aston Jnr.

With Brambani and Briggs heading for pastures new during the close season, the two youngsters have grasped their opportunity.

Cory’s ability has never been in doubt, but Aston Snr insists he is now taking more responsibility and developing a different side to his game. “He maybe didn’t have that streak in him, which I did, where I would start kicking people’s backsides, but he is getting that now” he added.

“That’s him maturing and developing. I can see him grow by the week and he is taking control of this team and they are starting to listen.”

With Rhys Jacks currently on trial the duo could soon have competition; a decision over his future is due at the end of the week.

For now Aston is delighted with his current crop, admitting teenager Hewitt has adapted well to the rough and tumble of Championship rugby league. He added: “He is still only 19 years old playing at the highest level outside Super League and he has acquitted himself greatly.

“I took him off against Halifax but he didn’t do anything wrong, and he needs to understand that. We are really happy with the half-backs.”