Here’s how our men’s side players have performed in the elite competitions in July. The August matches will be discussed next month. Words – Ian Golden. Pic – Andy Shaw
Denive Balmforth was in great form for York Knights, scoring tries in wins over Huddersfield Giants and Hull FC. Caleb Aekins scored a try for Bradford Bulls in their loss to Leeds Rhinos early in the month, and also participated in all four other matches for his club in July. Luke Thomas was in one win and three defeats with Warrington Wolves.
Owain Abel scored a try for Salford in their win over his old club North Wales Crusaders, also playing against Sheffield Eagles and London Broncos. Oliver Garmston played in all four Salford matches, including the loss to Widnes Vikings, whilst Charlie Glover played against London and Widnes, Fin Yates against Crusaders and Widnes.
Mike Butt scored a hat-trick of tries in Widnes’ large win over Crusaders, also grounding against Goole Vikings and Salford. Matty Fozard scored one try per game for Widnes. Luis Roberts made a try-scoring comeback from injury with Midlands Hurricanes, going over once in the win over Rochdale Hornets and also playing against London. And ss Sheffield kept on winning, Billy Walkley kept on scoring. with one try against Salford and two against Rochdale, also playing in the victory over Workington Town.
Connor Davies scored a rare try for Halifax, just the tenth senior try of his career, helping them to a win over Dewsbury. Unfortunately, his twin brother Curtis Davies wasn’t in the side to celebrate with him, but they did both play in the loss to Oldham. Jude Ferreira and Bailey Antrobus both helped Newcastle Thunder to three wins out of three, with Jude scoring a try against Crusaders.
It’s rare for an 18th player to be used in a match, let alone score, but Max Clarke did, grounding for Keighley Cougars at Workington Town. Then, three days later, he scored a brace against Dewsbury Rams. Both matches ended in defeat for his side. Ant Walker played in three matches for Hunslet, all ending in defeat.
