Joey Lussick’s bromance with Jackson Hastings at Salford is blossoming

Drew Darbyshire

Photo courtesy of Richard Long

Joey Lussick said he is enjoying his time in England and living with his old friend, Jackson Hastings.

Lussick initially joined Salford ahead of the Qualifiers last season as he, along with Hastings, helped the Red Devils avoid relegation from Super League.

After securing the club’s Super League status, Lussick penned a two-year contract with Salford, while Hastings signed up for one-year.

Lussick previously played with Hastings at Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL, and Lussick revealed he has settled into life at Salford.

“It was an interesting time coming for the 8s but thankfully we survived the scare,” the 23-year-old told loverugbyleague.com.

“But I’ve loved my time here so far at the club. The boys have been amazing, the fans are outstanding, and I hope we can have a big 2019.

“It made it easier knowing a friend in Jackson when I joined the club. I’ve played with him before, so it definitely helped settling in.

“There are a few other Aussie boys as well, but everyone welcomed me with open arms.

“The weather was nice when I came over last year, I just missed the heatwave. but it’s been fine. It’s similar to Sydney over here but there’s no beach and it’s colder! But life has been good, I’ve found my feet now and I don’t need the sat nav as much when driving, I like it here.”

The Red Devils have won two out of their first three games in Super League this season, the victories coming against Huddersfield Giants and London Broncos.

And Lussick believes Ian Watson’s side can stun a couple of the bigger teams this year.

“A lot of people aren’t expecting as much from us as I think we are able to prove,” Lussick added.

“We can definitely compete with the bigger teams. I can’t talk too much as of yet because I don’t know what to expect from the likes of St Helens, Wigan and Warrington but they’ll be tough games.

“I like to think if we keep everyone fit and healthy then we’ll be able to compete against the big teams in the competition.

“Salford aren’t the biggest of clubs in terms of money and fans but the players are very hardworking, and the fans are passionate, so I’ve loved my time here so far and hopefully we can keep moving forward.”