Forward trio commit to Dewsbury for 2019

Matt Nicholson, Jack Ray and Liam Johnson have signed with Dewsbury for the 2019 season.

Front-rower Nicholson has returned to the Rams after eight years away from the club.

The 27-year-old spent the 2018 season with Hunslet in League 1, making 21 appearances.

On re-joining Dewsbury, he said: “A few things made me want to sign back here, one was the challenge of playing Championship rugby.

“It was quite well noted that I have had a few injuries in the last few years so I have spent the last two and a half years playing in League 1. However, I want to be back in the Championship, I want to be an effective member of this squad in this division.”

Front-rower Ray joins the club after graduating from Castleford Tigers’ Academy.

On signing for the Rams, Ray commented: “I thought it was the best opportunity for me to get into a first-team and get some Championship games under my belt.

“I think it is going to be a big step up coming from an academy, but I have been in and around the first-teams before. There are some people here who have been playing Championship rugby for years, so whilst I know it’s going to be hard, I’m really looking forward to it.”

Back-rower Johnson, who has signed a one-year deal with Dewsbury, came through the ranks at Huddersfield Giants and has also spent time on loan at Bradford Bulls.

On his move to the Tetley’s Stadium, Johnson said: “I think it is an exciting time at the club, with a new coaching set up and a new head coach.

“The club has got really good facilities which they own. I think it is a really good time in my career to kick on and develop.”