Sunday Social: Burrow’s big day, Valencia make history & Tamou fights the flames

James Messenger

It is time for Love Rugby League’s Sunday Social, your alternative recap of the serious and not so serious talking points from the past seven days. 

History was made this weekend when Valencia Huracanes took part in their first ever match. The Spanish side were beaten 102-14 at Villajoyosa’s El Campo del Pantano.

Rob Burrow says it will be an honour to step back out onto the field in blue and amber when Leeds take on Bradford this afternoon. The game will be a joint fundraiser for Burrow’s fight against Motor Neurone Disease and Jamie Jones Buchanan’s testimonial.

Wakefield will be bolstered this weekend by the return of second-rowers Matty Ashurst, centre Bill Tupou and England international Tom Johnstone. Injury restricted the trio to a combined 33 appearances in 2019.

Penrith Panthers prop James Tamou spoke about experiencing the devastation of the Australian bush fires first-hand. The 31-year-old helped defend properties around Braidwood, New South Wales.

Warrington’s Ben Murdoch-Masila looks in incredible shape ahead of the new campaign. ‘Big Ben’ will be hoping to force his way into Steve Price’s starting lineup, having made 75% of his appearances from the bench in 2019.

 

And finally, Hull FC winger Mahe Fonua has caused quite a stir in training after being pictures with an interesting new look. The 27-year-old returned to Humberside in the off-season after two years with NRL outfit Wests Tigers.


More on site

2020 Women’s Super League fixtures

Women’s Super League to split after nine rounds

Valencia Huracanes beaten heavily in historic first match

Te Maire Martin announces retirement following brain bleed

Salford trio loaned to Valencia