Saints youngsters pen new deals

St Helens have handed new deals to two academy products who made their first team debut this season, Anthony Walker and Jordan Hand.

Walker, 21, has played five times so far in 2013 and is now committed to Saints until 2015, while fellow forward Hand has signed until the end of 2014.

Head Coach Nathan Brown said: “Both are young home-grown players who have come through the system.

“Anthony has played regularly, come into the team and done well. We’re pleased with how he has adapted to the consistency of first grade rugby league – not that he didn’t have the talent in the first place.

“Jordan has also made one appearance this season and as the months and years progress he will get better. He is a tough kid.

“They are natural players, not manufactured, and have come through a good system. They have had a good education from a young age and understand the game very well.

“As long as they train very hard in the years down the track they should develop into good long-term players for the club. Now they have to work really hard and keep their feet on the ground.”