Mose Masoe signs for Hull KR

MJ Black

Prop Mose Masoe has become the latest new signing to join Hull KR as the club further strengthens its squad ahead of the Qualifiers.

The Samoa international links up with the Robins from St George Illawarra Dragons and has agreed a short-term contract until the end of the season subject to visa clearance, with an additional option to remain at KCOM Craven Park in 2018.

Having made 63 first grade appearances for Sydney Roosters and Penrith Panthers, Masoe later impressed during a two-year spell in Super League with St Helens, going on to win the Grand Final with Saints before returning to the NRL with the Dragons at the end of 2015.

Masoe said: “Hull KR have given me an opportunity to come to the club at an exciting time. They’re trying to make it back up and rebuild for next year and I want to come over there and try to help them get back to Super League, which is where the club should be.

“Me and my partner and our kids loved our time over there in the UK before. We would have stayed but I always wanted to go back to the NRL and give it another shot and St George gave me an opportunity to do that. We’ve now decided the time is right to come back and I can’t wait to get started at Rovers.”

Head coach Tim Sheens added: “Mose will add a different element to our pack. He’s got plenty of experience in the NRL and Super League and the fact that he has played over here before is a real bonus. He knows what to expect and will be able to hit the ground running.

“He’s been playing regularly back in Australia and physically he’s in great shape. Mose is excited about coming on board and playing a part in what we’re trying to achieve, and we’re excited about working with him.

“The paperwork for Mose’s visa has been submitted and he’s ready to come over as soon as that comes through. It’s difficult to put a timeframe on it, but we’d like to have him in place for the first game of the Qualifiers if possible.”