Batley sign Smeaton

Batley has signed Halifax centre Sam Smeaton ahead of the Middle 8s.

The Bulldogs said in a statement: “We have moved quickly to sign Sam Smeaton just before the deadline once we knew he was about to be released by Halifax.

“His spell at the Shay has not worked out perhaps as well as expected this year but he is a vastly experienced centre at our level previously at Featherstone and Sheffield.

“In 2016 he has scored 6 tries in 12 appearances with Halifax as well as 1 try in 3 appearances on loan at York.

“In 2015 he played 30 games with Sheffield scoring 7 tries and before he suffered a knee injury at Featherstone in 2012 in 28 appearances he scored 15 tries after previous successful seasons there from 2009 onwards.

“John Kear was concerned regarding the size of our squad for the Super 8’s as the rigors of Championship rugby are starting to take their toll.

“So clearly we needed to act before the deadline due to the restriction on increasing the squad thereafter.

“Hopefully with a blank weekend after this week that will ensure we have as many players as possible fit and available for selection.

“The Club would like to thank Bissa members for helping this signing to take place through their great support.

“This is another example of everyone at the Club pulling in the same direction and trying to achieve a common aim of putting together the best team we can with our resources. Now lets see what we can do in the Super 8’s.”