Manu looking forward to ‘slower’ Super League

Hull FC new boy Sika Manu is excited to finally have the opportunity to play in Super League, where he thinks the game could be slower than the NRL.

He is also expecting, with only referee on duty, there to be more wrestling around the ruck area in Super League compared with back in Australia.

The NRL uses a two referee system while Super League has just one.

“I’ve always wanted to come to Super League,” the 28-year old told Love Rugby League.

“I watched Super League growing up. They always had a physical game, so I wanted to come here to try it out.

“I’m expecting it to be a little bit slower.

“I think there’ll be a lot more wrestle here, like back in the old days in the NRL.”

Manu arrives after several successful years and grand finals with the Melbourne Storm. The Kiwi international has spent the past three seasons with the Penrith Panthers.

Manu has played 14 times for New Zealand and also made six appearances for Tonga, including at the 2013 World Cup.

The second-rower is pleased to be lining up alongside quality players like Frank Pritchard and Gareth Ellis at Hull FC.

He is not taking success for granted, though, despite the standard of player available to FC coach Lee Radford.

“I think we can go a long way this year,” he said.

“But a good team on paper doesn’t mean anything.

“Hopefully we can perform week-in and week-out.”