Hull KR sign Tony Puletua
Hull KR have confirmed that Tony Puletua has joined them on loan for the rest of the season from Salford.
The 35-year-old should add power and size to the Rovers forward pack, depleted in recent weeks by injury.
“It came about through a few phone calls from Chris Chester. The club has a few injuries at the moment and he wanted me to come in and help out,” said the player.
“I’ve not been playing for Salford and I’ve always seen this year as my last season before I retire and I want to go out with a bang. I really want to do well for the club before I finish up.
“It’s been 19 long years my career and it’s a good feeling to finish at a strong club with so much history. I really want to go out on a high and it’s straight in at the deep end for me this week against Hull FC.
“Hopefully my experience will help me and I’m looking forward to it. It’s a big game on a big stage and I’m sure it will live up to all expectations. It will be great to be part of a great club.”
Hull KR are struggling for middle-unit forwards at the moment, with Dane Tilse, Mitch Allgood and Adam Walker all out injured.
Robins coach Chris Chester is able to call on Puletua’s services for the game against Hull FC at Magic Weekend, and he is delighted to have added a player of such experience to his squad.
“Tony is a quality player who has played at the highest level for a number of years,” he said.
“He won the NRL with Penrith and he has plenty of big game experience, which will be a real asset for our younger blokes.
“We are down to a couple of fit front-rowers at the moment so to bring in a prop of Tony’s calibre is a fantastic addition to our squad and our thanks go out to the Salford club for their cooperation.
“He’s a thorough professional on and off the field and he’s arrived in good shape so I’ve got no worries about throwing him straight into the derby this weekend.
“He’s a big forward with plenty of skill so I’m sure he’ll be a big player for us for the rest of the season and having spoken to him, I know he’s really motivated to do well for the club.”