2017 through Marshall ’ s eyes
Halifax
2017 through Marshall ’ s eyes
Q : What ’ s different on the field for 2017 ?
A : “ Our squad size is different . We ’ ve got around 24 players for the season , but I believe the side ’ s equally as talented as last year ’ s – if not more . We ’ ve got some fantastic young players and perfect experienced mentors in the squad too . I ’ m hoping to see players like Grix , Boyle and Murrell spread some of their career wisdom to the younger players .”
Q : Do you think we ’ ll see a difference in Championship with the entrance of Hull KR ?
A : “ Hull KR are a big , iconic Club and I definitely think they ’ ll bring a lot to the league . Similar to Bradford a couple of years ago , they ’ ll bring a lot of attention and revenue to Clubs that need it , with their fantastic following .
“ They ’ re a strong historic side and I do think they will be the best team in the competition .
“ That being said , Championship ’ s a very different competition to Superleague . I think they will be surprised at the level of grit and play and might find it harder than they thought . Only time will tell !”
Q : How do you think the 2017 squad compares with the Halifax side when you were playing ?
A : “ This is an interesting one ! There ’ s definitely some similarities . Perhaps my favourite season , 1998 is brought to mind . John Pendlebury led our squad – which was a very similar size to this year ’ s pack – and we only lost a handful of games . The pack gelled really well and brought out each other ’ s strengths - I couldn ’ t hope for any better this year .”
Q : Halifax have announced a Dual Registration deal with Salford . Why them and why now ?
A : “ Last year we were paired with Hull KR , but barely used it . This time , we ’ ve considered a few offers and created a partnership that benefits the development of both the squads involved . Myself and Ian Watson ( Salford Head Coach ) were in touch over the pre-season , I ’ ve known him a long time and we even played together , back in our Swinton days .
“ With Salford no longer having an academy , and us having three teams ( First Team , Reserves and our Embed The Pathway side ) it ’ s the perfect opportunity to give talented young players a Superleague experience , as well as bridging the gap through unforeseeable injuries .”
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