ROAR The Official Magazine of Castleford Tigers - Issue 4 April 2021

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF CASTLEFORD TIGERS

ISSUE 04 • APRIL 2021

INSIDE

ONE LAST ROAR: POWELL TO LEAVE TIGERS AFTER 2021

WOMEN’S BETFRED SUPER LEAGUE FIXTURES ANNOUNCED!

SHENTON READY FOR TESTING APRIL SCHEDULE

OH

DANNY BOY!

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: FOUNDATION + GAME REVIEWS + BRAD GRAHAM + YOUTH

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CONTACTS The Mend-A-Hose Jungle: 01977 552674 Tigers Den Club Shop: 01977 552499 Ticket Office: 01977 529264 Email: info@castigers.com castlefordtigers.com facebook.com/castlefordtigers twitter.com/ctrlfc STAFF

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Director of Rugby: Jon Wells Head Coach: Daryl Powell Assistant Coach: Ryan Sheridan Head of Strength & Conditioning: Jordan Fentiman Head Physio: Matt Crowther Head of Youth: Darren Higgins Captain: Michael Shenton BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman: Ian Fulton Club President: Brian Ashworth

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Managing Director: Mark Grattan

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Directors: Richard Wright Steve Vause Dion Lowe John Duff ADMINISTRATION General Manager: Richard Pell Head of Commercial Operations: Chris Powell Commercial Manager: Craig Jeffels Accounts Manager: Pam Johnson Media & Marketing Manager: Tom Maguire Ticketing Manager: Mark Gill Daily Draw Manager: Pauline Rhodes HONOURS Challenge Cup: 1934-35, 1968-69, 1969-70, 1985-86 John Player Trophy: 1976-77 Regal Trophy: 1993-94 BBC2 Floodlit Trophy: 1965-66, 1966-67, 1967-68, 1976-77 Yorkshire League Champions: 1932-33, 1938-39, 1964-6 Yorkshire Cup: 1977-78, 1981-82, 1986-87, 1990-91, 1991-92 National League 1 Grand Final Winners: 2005, 2007 National League 1 Champions: 2007 2017 League Leaders’ Shield MATCH PROGRAMME Editors: Sam Armstrong & Tom Maguire Photos: SWPix, Melanie Allatt Photography & OMH Rugby Pictures Magazine designed by Ignition Sports Media Ltd

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DANNY RICHARDSON

MAIN INTERVIEW

13

LEAVING CASTLEFORD

DARYL POWELL

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BULLETIN BOARD

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T H I S

32 ADAM MILNER

A DAY TO REMEMBER

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CASTLEFORD WOMEN

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MORGY

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YOUTH OVERVIEW

CAPTAIN‘S NOTES

MICHAEL SHENTON

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MATCH REVIEW

HULL KR

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MATCH REVIEW

WARRINGTON

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MATCH REVIEW

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CASTLEFORD HERITAGE

COACH‘S NOTES

DARYL POWELL

I S S U E

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FOUNDATION OVERVIEW

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WIREHOUSE JOIN THE RANKS

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SEASON FIXTURES & RESULTS

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CLUB PARTNERS

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main feature

“OH

DANNY BOY…”

A statement signing a year ago, Danny Richardson had an enjoyable debut season at Wheldon Road, but by his own lofty standards, Cas’ number seven is looking to take big strides forward as an individual and as a team as he gears up for year two in the Black and Amber.

What an eventful first year at the club for Castleford’s number seven – Take this time last year where having just beaten his old club St Helens in a thrilling 28-14 home win, the whole country ended up entering lockdown just days later! A lot has happened since Richardson first put pen to paper on a three year deal to join Cas in October of 2019. Whilst the Tigers’ 2020 season went a little off track, Richardson is keen to get back to the heights of their pre-lockdown performances.

“Well, the last game this time last year had just gone and that was some performance we put in that day, it felt like we built up over the first couple of rounds to get that performance and it was our most complete performance and then unfortunately for us it was the last game we played for about four months! Not ideal that and then to come back after the break and not be at that level we needed to be at was disappointing. I’ve said before it was up and down and it was unacceptable from a playing group point of view in terms of what we could control and now having been at Cas over a year I feel settled in, and ready to just get the job done this year.”

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The road to teamwide success in a season starts early in pre-season as players set their targets and individual routes for progression and Cas’ scrum half is no different - putting on five kilos since last season as he looks to bulk up and shoulder a greater burden in defence for his side.

“Defence is a target for me to improve this year and so far I feel I’ve done that and I’m looking forward to putting that into practice when the games roll around! I’m far from the complete player that I want to be and that includes defence, attacking with and without the ball, and even communication - I really want to become the general of this team and lead the team round the field in different situations. I also want to get back to that running game I had when I was first coming through and playing first team rugby, I was running the ball a lot more then and I want to get back to that. Evolving my game in every aspect is key for me with half an eye on England selection towards the back end of this year.”

Danny represents one quarter of Castleford’s exciting all-English spine featuring himself and Jake

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Trueman in the halves, together with reigning Man of Steel Paul McShane and exciting new signing Niall Evalds at fullback.

“Yeah, I’m really excited for that to come together and for us to play a few games together. I’ve had a bit of small injury with my hand so I’ve had to have some time out from training with the boys and it’ll be about getting back to establishing that relationship and hopefully we can stay as injury free as possible throughout the year and play as many games as we can together and give ourselves the biggest chance of success. All-English spine, all been enjoying pre-season and once we get that chance I think we can be a real force.”

then also a fullback role from time to time and I’d just come through running the ball as much as I could and being a very direct player, and I remember moving to St Helens and coming through the academy there, they moved me more towards playing a scrum half role and to the naked eye, you might not see much of a difference between what a six and seven does but in the rugby world, it’s a big difference:”

Now familiar to most fans as Cas’ vocal organiser in attack, it wasn’t always this way for Richardson as he grew up a more instinctive, direct player. In fact, the differences in the modern game between a six and seven are increasingly more miniscule and he’s eager to showcase this and return to his running roots when the situation allows.

“Your seven has historically been more of your organiser of the game and responsible for the kicking game and the six has always been your runner and your “off the cuff” type player. Knowing that changed the way I played, and that’s what I’m talking about now – I feel there’s room in my game to do both. I can control a game and kick well but I can also be that type of running half. It’s happened in games throughout my career where I’ve gone back to that and with having Truey [Jake Trueman] and Macca [Paul McShane] around me, there’s plenty of options around me and I can rely on them to steady the ship.”

“Growing up, I played mostly as a six, that sort of stand-off role and

“Ultimately that’s a big personal aim of mine: to try and get back

to not just being a kicker and an organiser, because I know that I’ve got that in my natural game to create tries and be running threat.

It’s just trying to change the way I play a little bit and having the confidence to do it.”

The way the 24-year old describes how he wants to play and what he wants to add to his game it’s hard not to be amazed at the skillset that is seemingly expected of a modern Super League half back! But when looking at the “must-have” skills for a scrum half, Richardson insists that a great deal of it comes with time and that it’s about learning and continual improvement to become the very best all-rounded player. www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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“I think you start with the passing and kicking as an absolute basic, having every pass and kick on the money as minimum, and then it’s also about selecting the right option. Looking back when we have reviews, from the camera angle it’s a lot easier to see what’s there than when you’re running the play.

You’ve got a split second to make a decision in the moment and we are human, we’re not going to get it right 100% of the time!

But the perfect half gets 98/99 of those 100 opportunities right!

Then with defence, you’d be hoping to never miss a tackle and always competing with players running at you.

“But every Super League half back has got a base level of skill, and that’s why we’re playing at this elite level, but the better you can hone those skills, the better player you will become and the more decorated and recognised player you will be.”

“As a half, you tend to mature over time and rarely will you get a young player who will come through and automatically be at the top of his game. It’s not always a position that you come through aged 20, and play every game regularly for nearly 15 years, it’s not really like that! Take me for example, I came through and everybody knows there’s been ups and downs throughout my career, but I’m still

only 24, I’ve got 7/8 good years left in learning the game and every day for each of those years you can come in and be learning and improving.”

More than a few young Tigers currently in and around the First Team squad have been in the position that Richardson once was, namely as an up-and coming playmaker, and this includes Cain Robb and Adam Rusling as promsinig decision makers. A guiding hand a few words of advice can go a long way in a players’ development and the Widnes-born half back has always been there to help mentor younger players coming through.

“When I’m in, I do spend time with the younger lads and I’ll offer them a few tips on little things and try to give my advice, but the main thing I always say to them is to try and get your voice. It’s daunting and some lads will think you’re trying to boss them about when you’re a young kid. But being in that position as a decision maker whether it’s a half or hooker, you’ve got to do it, you’ve got to demand the ball and everything else follows from that confidence. Even myself now, I can still improve and I’m a loud half back and I’ve no problem telling boys what to do but I can always feel that improvement of my own confidence.”

When asked what represents a successful season for him in 2021, Richardson is candid and admits he wants his Castleford performance to be putting him in Shaun Wane’s plans for the Rugby League World Cup in Autumn.

“After missing the first game, the main thing for me is to get match fit and I’ve set myself little goals here and there that are easy to target on a game by game basis, but for me, I want to be playing in that England squad at the end of year, I want to be playing the best rugby that I’ve ever played in my career and that is the big goal for me, and to be in the conversation to get selected.”

It should give Fords’ fans immense confidence to know that the sight of Richardson in the white of England in 2021 will mean he’ll have pulled out all the stops for his club as he strives to be the very best player he can be. www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Powell To Leave Tigers At End Of 2021 EARLIER THIS MONTH, CASTLEFORD TIGERS ANNOUNCED THAT HEAD COACH DARYL POWELL WILL BE LEAVING THE CLUB AT THE END OF THE 2021 SEASON. Powell first took charge of the Tigers during the 2013 season with the team languishing towards the bottom of the league table but in his near eight years as Head Coach, he has played a vital role in turning the Club’s on-field fortunes around, from fighting off relegation to contending for silverware success.

The 55-year-old has led Castleford to finals in both the Challenge Cup and Super League, play-off place finishes on four occasions, and secured the Club’s first-ever top place finish and won the League Leaders’ Shield in a memorable 2017 campaign and his impact at the Tigers has been recognised across the world of rugby league as he was awarded the Super League Coach of the Year award twice in 2014 and 2017.

Wholly committed to the Tigers for the upcoming season and determined to finish with a flourish, Powell has agreed to an updated contract which will see him finish his tenure with the Club at the end of 2021, with a strong ambition of leaving Castleford Tigers on a high note.

Speaking about his decision with ROAR, Powell said: “This is my eighth full season in charge which for a coach is a long time and towards the end of last season, I sat down with Ian Fulton and explained what I wanted to do.

For both me and the Club, it is the right time, I want to finish what has been an unbelievably great time for me at Castleford personally in a positive way this year. It gives the Club time to plan for the future, I thought the timing was right

and I wanted to make a proactive decision, for both parties it gives us that time.

“I am massively motivated this year, I have loved being a part of the Club’s history and helping players to grow and develop, and I would really love to finish off in a positive way with a Grand Final win and close a chapter that has been such a special time in my life.

“There is always an end of an era and it certainly feels like that for me, and it will be a great opportunity for the team and the Club to finish that era in a special way. It is going to be tough

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no doubt about that, but we have had an awesome pre-season and there is a good opportunity for us all to pull together and make sure anyone finishing at the Club this year has a special final season.

“Castleford has been my club; I supported the team as a young fella and for me to be able to coach the team has been a dream come true. I almost achieved the very pinnacle by winning the Grand Final, but I think we have been super consistent, and I think we have played in the true Cas style, in a Classy Cas way. It means a lot to me when I speak to the past players of the Club and they talk about us upholding the history and standards of past playing days.

“The fans have been absolutely unbelievable; I walk across the pitch at every home game and the reception I get is always special so I hold that dear and I always will.

Castleford Tigers is a special club and I have had a really special time being a part of it.”

Castleford Tigers’ Chairman Ian Fulton paid his thanks to Daryl Powell for his time at Wheldon Road and said: “I personally and on behalf of the Board of Directors and all Tigers’ fans would like to thank Daryl for all his hard work over the years, he has been an integral part of this team and indeed the local community in the time he has spent here.

“I know his achievements here will have given him and his family memories to last a lifetime and he

is committed to making even more in 2021 and we would love to see him end his time at Castleford with silverware.

“After some lengthy conversations that started at the end of 2020, both Daryl and the Club felt that with a number of coaches and players out of contract at the end of the year, 2022 would be the right time for a new face to come in and take charge, and the process of appointing that person will be incredibly thorough and has already begun internally.

“Once again, I would like to say how thankful I am to Daryl and to his family for all that they have given to the Fords over the past eightyears and everyone at the Club wishes him well for the upcoming season and beyond.” www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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TIGERS’ CLUB DOCTOR JOINS RLWC TEAM! Castleford Tigers’ Club Doctor Nick Raynor has been appointed as the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the Rugby League World Cup 2021!

involved in the World Cup! I already bought my tickets to go and watch a bunch of the games anyway because I was just happy to go and see it!

Raynor will be working with Simon Perrit, St Helens’ Club Doctor, to oversee medical provisions for the entire tournament which is not made up of just the men’s competition, but also the women’s and wheelchair too!

“I’m quite proud to have the opportunity to work hard and make it, in my small way, as successful as it can be.

Speaking about his delight at joining the Rugby League World Cup 2021 team, Raynor said: “I remembered talking in the interview and why I wanted the role, I just wanted to do anything really to be

“The World Cup team so far, I have only just joined the team but the work that they have done, you get a sense of how passionate they are to make it a huge success. I think a lot of tickets already sold have gone to first-time rugby league fans, so I think it will be a brilliant event to hopefully grow the sport nationally and internationally.”

Gareth O’Brien to wear #31 in 2021 Gareth O’Brien will be wearing shirt number #31 for Castleford Tigers in 2021!

O’Brien was originally going to be wearing the #16 shirt for the Fords in the upcoming season, which was announced during the club’s official virtual squad launch and sponsors evening back in February.

However, due to personal reasons, Gareth made the request to switch to #31 and that request has been granted by the club and confirmed by the RFL. This now means that 18-year-old hooker Cain Robb has also changed his squad number for the 2021 season, Robb will now wear #32, whilst #16 will remain vacant.

OUR LEAGUE CODES SENT FOR SEASON TICKET HOLDERS

ERNIE SMITH 1937-2021

2021 Castleford Tigers Season Ticket holders have been sent their unique Our League live stream code.

Castleford Tigers are saddened to hear of the the passing of lifelong Cas fan Ernie Smith. Ernie’s Daughter Ali, told the club:

With the new Betfred Super League season beginning initially behind closed doors, 2021 Season Ticket holders will be able to watch these early round matches through the Our League platform for free.

Each code can only be used only once, and these codes will allow streaming access to all home and away league matches until Season Ticket Holders can return to attendance in stadiums.

We advise supporters to check their junk or spam folders to the email address that is attached to the club’s database, but one code has been allocated per Season Ticket holder.

Fans who have not received an email from the club or have more than one membership registered per email address, are asked to please contact ticketing@ castigers.com. Supporters who contact the club about their code are asked to leave it no later than 48 hours prior to a match.

Details of how to redeem the code are available on the Tigers’ website.

“Ernie was a diehard fan, taking his two kids and wife to Wembley for the '69 &' 70 cup finals, and he was a true family man and both him and his wife Isobel were season ticket holders for 25 years until Alzheimer’s took hold some 3 years ago.. They still went to home games and cheered our boys on.... Ernie was a true pillar of the community and played football and cricket and worked at Allerton Bywater colliery for many years. His absence at games will be felt wholeheartedly.” www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Daryl is proudly sponsored by Lagentium Insurance Brokers for the coming season

Powell on heading into his final season IT WAS HUGE NEWS THAT SHOCKED THE MAJORITY OF NOT ONLY CASTLEFORD SUPPORTERS, BUT THE WORLD OF RUGBY LEAGUE. DARYL POWELL WILL BE LEAVING CASTLEFORD TIGERS AT THE END OF THE 2021 SEASON, AFTER EIGHT YEARS IN CHARGE OF THE FIRST TEAM, AND AHEAD OF THE 2021 SEASON STARTING ROAR SAT DOWN WITH DARYL TO DISCUSS THE NEWS AND HIS THOUGHTS AS HE GOES INTO HIS LAST CAMPAIGN AS THE CASTLEFORD HEAD COACH. Why the change and why now?

I think eight years is a long time, I think I felt towards the end of last season that I needed a fresh challenge and that the players and club needed freshening up a little bit. Everything comes to an end, eight years for a Head Coach is something you do not see that often, I am the longest serving Head Coach in Super League at the moment. I think freshening up was important and this was the right time, I felt, and I am hoping to finish my time with the club in a special way by winning a Grand Final or a Challenge Cup. You are always motivated for a season, but with this news are you even more motivated to end of a high with the club that you grew up supporting?

For me, the motivation is to do something special at the club, we have been so close finishing top for the first time ever in the club’s history in 2017 which was a special

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time, but I would like to rubber stamp the period that I have had with a trophy. We have had a great pre-season and I think we are ready to have a real good crack at doing just that.

Tell us about your relationship with Ian Fulton who has thanked you and your family for what you have done so far for both the club and the local Castleford community?

In 2013 when I came to the club, Jack was still alive, Bridie was still alive, I went to their house a few times to talk to them and they were such fantastic people and unfortunately, they left us, and Ian took over and he loves the club just as much as Jack did. The Fultons are a great family, what they have done for the club is absolutely phenomenal and I think for them and for me and me family, for all the families of the players, I think that we want to do that something special and for us all, not to say bye because you keep in touch, but to part ways having

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had such a special journey. It is the whole club, from the top office with Mark Grattan and all the way down everyone has contributed to what we have tried to do. The coaching staff have been amazing, and we all want this, we all want it, it is not just about me it is about everybody and the players will be putting their hearts and souls into what they want to achieve this season and they will need to do that because it is going to be a tough year.

It will be the end of an era with you Daryl and the start of a new one in 2022 with a new Head Coach and a lot of players off contract this season, is it a good time for that new era to begin next year?

It is always hard when you are leaving and I think when you have been at a club as long as I have with Castleford, you almost want to keep it, but it is what it is, and I would always wish this club the very best. I supported this club as a teenager, I would want to leave it in good hands and I

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want to see the club thrive and prosper, I would come back down as a supporter again! I have always been so passionate about this club and I would like to see it going really well. Whoever the club chooses as the next coach, they will ask my opinion and already have, I will give it willingly.”

In 2021 you have high quality players with Niall Evalds, Paul McShane, and Jake Trueman to name just three, how excited are you to get stuck into the season with these players after a long preseason?

Everyone talks about the spine of the team and they are players who make the team tick, I think we have a pretty special group of players there.

Trueman looks like he can do anything with a rugby ball, Gaz O’Brien at fullback or halfback, Danny Richardson, Niall Evalds as a new signing looks like he will be a special player for Castleford, and Paul McShane is and has been a special player for Castleford.

I think when Macca came to the club, he was just about ready to go on the tools and play part time which would have been a travesty, to see him doing how he is... it was one of the proudest moments of my life last year seeing

Everything comes to an end, eight years for a Head Coach is something you do not see that often, I am the longest serving Head Coach in Super League at the moment

“”

him pick up the Man of Steel award. This year is exciting, and all the players around those guys, there is good players in every position with a deep competitive squad and that will bring the best out of everybody.

Is it added fuel that not many pundits are tipping Castleford to do well?

I do not think we have been ever to be honest, we have always spoke about what we think we can achieve, and people probably laugh at us at times, 2017 changed that a little bit. People have been talking about us being 9th or 10th, well that is just another little motivation tool for me to use. We just need to prove people wrong as usual; I think we have been doing that for a few years now. I would not worry too much about what people say, it is about what we feel, what we do and what we aspire to. Every single year I go in and say ’It’s a Grand Final year’ that is just the way I am!

I do not like losing anything and I expect the players to be the same and we have got a real competitive group of players who will be really busting their guts this season.

Are you proud that you have changed the expectations of the club from fighting to stay in Super League to being

contenders and wanting to win it?

100%. When I first came in people were talking to me about just wanting to see the team working hard, that is the starting point! You want a team to win things and that was always it, I have always wanted to win things and you do not always get what you want. There are 11 other teams out there wanting to win the competition as well it is hard, obviously there is other teams about there with better resources than us, but we have always worked on being greater than the sum of our parts and that core collective belief and spirit plays a big part in that. I think it has always served us well and with a good squad which we have this year, it has been the best pre-season since 2017, everyone talks about that year – how could you not? It was so special but 2018 and 2019 were good years too, we finished in the top five and we have been super competitive, but people expect something a bit different now. It is completely different to when I arrived and that’s one of my biggest achievements that people expect us to do well now and I’m proud that I have been able to with a lot of other people make that a reality.

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Michael is proudly sponsored by Spear Scaffolding Services for the coming season

Michael Shenton First game of 2021 and Adz’s testimonial game was a real good hit out for us, a few of the boys missed out, but having Wattsy and Griff back for the start of the season is massive for us = I thought we looked really composed and really tidy in our performance against Hull KR, and some of what we’d been working on in training came to fruition.

Plenty of positives there as well as a lot to work on. I think our halves were great, Gaz stepping up with Danny having sustained a small hand injury, but they’ll both be there for squad selection and we’re starting to see the real depth in our squad, it’s been a while since we’ve had 20/21 fit blokes to pick from, so there’s real competition for places in there and that should lead us forward into having a really good start to the season. Looking at the start of the season, the first four or five games are key and you want to get at least four of those ideally. Of course you want to win all of them, but realistically it doesn’t always happen.

Coming up we’ve Leeds, always massive, such a shame that fans can’t be there for that one, but always exciting to play them and it could be a real statement game for us. Leigh after, we can’t underestimate them, especially with their signing of Nathan Peats, it’ll be tough game but it’ll also be us back at home, it’s been a while since we’ve played here. Obviously, Wigan games are Wigan games, it’s a great measuring stick to see where we are, you’d like to think they’re one of the strongest teams in the comp this year so that’ll be a challenge. We round out April against Salford, always competitive games against Salford, and under a new coach they’ll be keen to impress so I imagine they will want to get stuck into us.

There’s numerous reasons why we want this year to be our best year but one of the main ones is that it’s going to be Daryl’s last season at the club. What he’s done for this place is incredible and I guarantee you that this being his final season here makes it even more important for everybody, including Daryl, myself, and all the players that we make this a special year.

He’s been part of the reason that this place has changed the way it has, on-

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Coming up we’ve Leeds, always massive, such a shame that fans can’t be there for that one, but always exciting to play them and it could be a real statement game for us. Leigh after, we can’t underestimate them, especially with their signing of Nathan Peats, it’ll be tough game but it’ll also be us back at home, it’s been a while since we’ve played here.

“”

and off the field he’s driven standards from within. You’ve got to be certain kind of player to have to play for Castleford now which is great and I think there’s a lot of things that Daryl has implemented that we can take forward as we move on in terms of how we play our football and I think there’s a lot there that makes us special.

We want to make sure that there’s a real strong legacy for Daryl here but there’s plenty of time yet to talk about that and Powelly won’t want that to distract people.

There’s a time come the end of the year, where we can talk about Powelly and how good he is, I’m sure he’ll love that! But right now, the focus has got to be on playing and he’s the one driving that. We wish him all the best in future, but right now we’ve got an important job to do.

I’m happy with where we are right now, we’ve gone a bit under the radar, lots of talk about other teams, and it’s happened to us before has that, so that’s kind of how we like it! The playing group is in a real good place and I’m confident that we can be a top four team this year.

Thank you for your support as ever, stay safe and enjoy the games.

SHENNY www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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MATCH review: hull kr 20 - 20 cASTLEFORD TIGERS

TIGERS DOWN ROBINS IN MILNER’S TESTIMONIAL

Cas were able to sign off their pre-season with a hard-fought 20-30 win over Hull KR in Adam Milner’s testimonial match.

The Fords’ travelled to Hull College Craven Park to face Hull KR to help celebrate the service of their #ONECLUB man, but also to prepare for the coming season in what was the Tigers’ sole pre-season game before the Betfred Super League season kicks off in two weeks’ time.

Daryl Powell named a strong starting 13 featuring new acquisitions Niall Evalds and Jordan Turner, and whilst the hosts’ side was equally flush with 2021 recruits as Ryan Hall started his first game in England since returning from Australia, whilst Brad Takairangi brought his considerable NRL experience to Humberside.

Windy conditions and new combinations meant a cagey start for both sides, with Evalds demonstrating his security under the high ball in the opening minutes before showcasing his pace and flair for improvisation when he collected a loose kick and raced to halfway to put Cas on the front foot.

Improvisation was perhaps the theme for Cas’ opening score, after a pass

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rebounded off Dean Hadley as he retreated, Jake Trueman pounced to gather the loose ball and he was able to race 60 yards and dot down, with O’Brien converting to give the visitors an early 0-6 lead.

Trueman made another break as the Tigers went looking for another score but was unable to find the supporting Evalds as a resilient KR defence kept it a one score game. As KR began to gather momentum of their own halfway through the first half, Evalds showed again why his signing has generated such excitement amongst Fords’ fans, coming across to bundle the much bigger Ryan Hall into touch just as he threatened to cross in the corner. Shortly after, Cas were able to double their advantage, with Trueman bouncing away from two tackles before sneaking over. O’Brien again able to add the extras.

Fans were speculating where new signing Jordan Turner would fit into the team and injuries to James Clare and Sosaia Feki, saw him start out on the wing where he forced a turnover after wrapping up a Greg Minikin, whilst also making metres with a series of marauding carries.

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Between him and Derrell Olpherts, no one can accuse the wingers of not doing the hard yards in Cas’ side!

Just when the Robins had looked to have secured a try of their own through Greg Minkin, the referee adjudged a knock-on in-goal and Cas were able to take the resulting 20m restart straight down the field for their third score, a lovely move on the right edge saw Mata’utia feed Evalds on the inside for his first try as a Tiger.

There was a fiery start to the second half as Hadley looked to have put a late shot on Gareth O’Brien which Daniel Smith took exception to, before being penalised.

From the resulting set, the hosts manged to camp on the Tigers’ line and get themselves on the scoreboard with Jez Litten scooting over from dummy half.

Castleford were able to reply promptly, a knock-on at midfield gave them possession and a sweeping move saw Evalds pass to Shenton back on the inside, with the skipper being able to cross the try line and score courtesy of some “fortuitous” obstruction which went unnoticed, to the Ford’s favour.

Their early try in the second half had seemed to spur on Hull KR, and they were in again just 10 minutes after their first: Adam Quinlan keen to show there are two mercurial fullbacks on the field as he broke a tackle and managed to execute a perfect kick for newly appointed KR

Captain Shaun Kenny-Dowall to touch down. Moments later, the fullback was in with a score of his own, Ryan Hall’s offload bouncing to him at the right moment to cut the Ford’s lead to just ten.

The Robins really had the bit between their teeth now and with sustained pressure close to the Cas line, Jake Trueman was sinbinned for being offside in the tackle, George Lawler making the man advantage tell almost immediately as he crossed under the sticks to leave the hosts just four points behind heading into the final 15 minutes.

The threat of an impending comeback gave the away side chance to throw some of their younger players into a pressure situation, with 18-year old Cain Robb coming on at hooker and his energy and quick movement with the ball were key in giving Cas more breathing room – the youngster being able to find O’Brien, who linked up Evalds, already looking at home in the #1 jersey, to put Shenton across for his second try of the afternoon.

O’Brien nailed his kick to continue his perfect outing with the boot.

A determined KR side kept fighting and were unfortunate not to score more towards the end, going close through Keinhorst in the dying moments of the game, but Cas were able to hold on and secure the victory giving them plenty to look at ahead of the season opener as well as a chance to celebrate their #13.

HOW THE TEAMS LINED UP: HULL KR Quinlan, Crooks, Minikin, Kenny-Dowall, Hall, Takairangi, Abdull, Sims, Parcell, Lawler, Linnett, Hadley, Minchella Interchange Dagger, Johnson, Keyes, Keinhorst, King, Lewis, Litten, Maher, Ryan, Storton, Vete Tries: Litten, Kenny-Dowall, Quinlan, Lawler Conversions: Abdull (2/4)

CASTLEFORD TIGERS Evalds, Olpherts, Mata’utia, Shenton, Turner, Trueman, O’Brien, Millington, McShane, Massey, Holmes, Foster, Milner Interchange Bienek, Blair, Graham, Hepi, O’Neill, Peachey, Robb, Sene-Lefao, Smith Tries: Trueman (2), Evalds, Shenton (2) Conversions: O’Brien (5/5) Sin Bin: Trueman www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Match review: CASTLEFORD TIGERS 21-12 WARRINGTON WOLVES

TIGERS TERRIFIC IN SEASON OPENER

The Fords dazzled as they won 21-12 in their Super League season opener against Warrington Wolves.

Emerald Headingley was the venue for Cas’ opening Betfred Super League fixture as they ground out a 21-12 win off the back of inspired performances from Jake Trueman and Paul McShane as well as their new signings.

The Tigers’ side featured competitive debuts in the Black and Amber for fullback Niall Evalds and Jordan Turner, demonstrating his versatility by starting on the wing. The strength of depth for the Tigers was underlined with Gareth O’Brien starting at scrum half with Danny Richardson rested as a precaution.

Elsewhere props George Griffin and Liam Watts returned to the Tigers’ matchday 17 after missing pre-season action.

There was to be no star-studded debut of Greg Inglis for the Fords’ opposition, but mercurial half backs Blake Austin and Gareth Widdop looked to link up with their marauding pack headed by returning Captain Jack Hughes, whilst the name most familiar to Tigers’ fans, Daryl Clark, began the game from the bench.

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The opening stages were cagey as both sides marched up and down the field looking to settle the nerves. Cas began to tighten the screw after Peter Mata’utia put Griffin in the clear and then Jake Trueman managed to slot in a short kick which eluded Charnley and Oliver Holmes managed to expertly dab down just before the ball bounced out the back of the in-goal area to give the Tigers an early score, and Gareth O’Brien calmly knocked over the conversion to add to the early lead.

Their advantage didn’t last long as Warrington struck back shortly after from a high bomb which was gathered expertly by Toby King, off the fingertips of Niall Evalds, to score. This galvanised the Wolves and after a penalty for offside against the hosts, they were knocking on the door of the Cas tryline, with only scrambling Tigers’ defence preventing a quick second score. Shortly thereafter another probing kick caused problems for Cas with Gareth O’Brien collecting the ball from an offside position and Cas did well to survive another set of six close to their own line.

On a windy day, Warrington’s kicking game was high-risk, high-reward and this was proven after one of Widdop’s bombs sailed out on the full near halfway giving

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come not long after as on the back of a McShane break which put the Tigers not far out, then the lethal left edge struck again with Evalds linking up with Turner for his second try of the game. Man of Steel McShane took over the kicking duties and duly converted the extras from out wide.

Fatigue was playing a part now as metres became a little easier to make in the final 20 minutes. Strong team defence was on show from Castleford after their try, surviving set after set inside their own 20 metres line when Shenton was penalised for an apparent strip on an outstretched Charnley.

Nursing a two-score lead, Cas began to turn their attention to a drop goal to give themselves more of a cushion however Adam Milner nearly made this one point moot as he scooted out from dummy half and was hauled down just a yard short of Warrington’s try line. After forcing a goal line drop out, the Ford’s settled themselves before McShane knocked over the drop goal to give his side some insurance going into the final 10 minutes.

This proved crucial as Blake Austin crossed late, but Daryl Powell’s side were able to see out the final minutes of the game and secure a statement win in Round One of the Betfred Super League.

Cas the impetus they needed to survive Warrington’s onslaught. It was then the Tigers’ turn to apply some pressure from the boot which Trueman did with another delicate, dribbling ball in behind, this time the bounce wasn’t as kind to Holmes and the chance to wider their narrow first lead half disappeared.

Mata’utia grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck midway through the 1st half with a sensational 40 yard break, before dummying the pass and finding Shenton out the edge, the ball was recycled back inside and Gareth O’Brien went very close before hitting his head as he surged for the line, unfortunately after a stoppage for treatment, he was deemed unable to continue, and replaced by Milner.

This didn’t deter the Tigers, who were making serious metres on the back of big carries from Liam Watts and Grant Millington. Trueman was continuing to wreck havoc with his left footed kicks, and after was one was fumbled by Stefan Ratchford, Cas received a repeat set and off the back of this, Trueman was able to find the dancing feet of Niall Evalds who waltzed past two defenders to dab down for his first Super League try for Cas! Credit Warrington’s defence as it was their turn to hold on as the halftime hooter drew closer, defending the imposing figures of Watts with numbers before Lineham reacted well to smother Olpherts after claiming a kick.

Shortly before half time, a penalty for a ball steal gave the Fords an opportunity to strike. Jake Trueman was already demonstrating a formidable connection with Niall Evalds who attacked the line with pace and committed defenders before completing a pass to Turner to slide over and give his side a 14-4 lead after the first 40.

Steve Price’s side emerged the slightly stronger side from the break, but after rounding out the first half with a showing of his offensive prowess, Jordan Turner reminded fans he’s no slouch in defence, shutting down Connor Wrench on the last tackle to force a turnover as Wire pushed for a second score.

Weathering the Wire storm meant Cas had little in the way of attack for a spell, however a penalty gave Cas great field position and they looked to have scored a fourth try through Cheyse Blair, however when referred to the video ref, he was adjudged to have knocked on as he looked to ground the ball. From the resulting set, Warrington’s two Clarks combined for the half’s first points. A missed tackle on Jason saw him put his namesake Daryl in the clear and he seared past several defenders to score.

Ill discipline from Daryl Powell’s side was hurting them as Wrench nearly went close again down the right edge, but Shenton smothered him well. Their reward for their sterling defence was to

HOW THE TEAMS LINED UP: CASTLEFORD TIGERS Evalds, Olpherts, Mata’utia, Shenton, Turner, Trueman, O’Brien, Griffin, McShane, Millington, Holmes, Blair, Massey Interchange Milner, Smith, O’Neill, Watts Tries: Holmes, Evalds, Turner Conversions: O’Brien (1/1) Mata’utia (0/2) McShane (1/2) Drop Goal: McShane

WARRINGTON WOLVES Ratchford, Lineham, King, Wrench, Charnley, Austin, Widdop, Cooper, Walker, Hill, Currie, Hughes, Philbin Interchange J. Clark, D. Clark, Mulhern, Ashton Tries: King, D. Clark, Austin Conversions: Ratchford (0/2) Widdop (0/1) www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Match Preview : 2, april 2021

LEEDS RHINOS

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

LUKE GALE The former Tigers’ player became captain of Leeds during 2020 and was an integral part of their Challenge Cup final victory, slotting over the all-important drop goal against Salford. Gale suffered a pectoral injury early in the preseason but was in the line-up for Round One, he will be keen to show his former club he can still shine on the field.

ZANE TETEVANO

Castleford’s first match in April is their second of the 2021 season and will see them take on Leeds Rhinos at the Totally Wicked Stadium. It’s an Easter rugby clash on Good Friday, 2nd April with a 3pm kick-off live on Sky Sports!

Both Cas and Leeds chalked up their first wins of the season in Round One and will be after some early season consistency with a win over their derby rivals.

In the off-season the Rhinos have recruited well adding some strength and size into their ranks with Zane Tetevano and King Vuniyayawa from NRL sides, and following injury blows to both Rob Lui and Jack Walker, Leeds have also brought back to rugby league Kyle Eastmond from Leicester Tigers Rugby Union.

Following their Challenge Cup victory in 2020, the Headingley club have their eyes

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The New Zealand international joins Richard Agar’s team with a lot of expectation, only after one game he seems to have hit the ground running despite less pre-season prep. He carries the ball incredibly well and can prove difficult to stop.

fixed on more silverware success and continuing their improvement over the past couple of seasons.

Castleford’s final match in 2020 was against Leeds and as expected, it was an intense occasion and provided a rare red-card after Oliver Holmes retaliated to Richie Myler elbowing him in the face with a kick. Despite being a man down, the Tigers performed well but were just edged

by Leeds 28-24.

If recent meetings between the Tigers and the Rhinos are anything to go by, expect a high level of intensity and excitement right until the end.

RICHIE MYLER Moving from the halves to fullback seems to have given Myler a new lease of life at Leeds, the 30-yearold can deal with high balls well and adds a little more depth into the Rhinos attacking line with either his passing or kicking.

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MATCH PREVIEW : 30, april 2021

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

LEIGH CENTURIONS

NATHAN PEATS A real coup signing for the newly promoted Centurions on the eve of the season, Peats brings over 150 games of NRL experience alongside representative State of Origin talent to Greater Manchester. A proven player at the highest level, he should straight in at Hooker and will be key in his side’s battle to march towards the top half of the table.

RYAN BRIERELY The return of the hometown hero will be something to savour for Leigh fans as fleetfooted Ryan Brierely was signed for the club where he scored well over 100 tries between 2012 and 2016. Wearing the #1 shirt this season, he may be facing a new challenge at fullback but his speed and execution will merit serious defensive attention if the Tigers are to come out of their game victorious.

The Tigers’ first game at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle will be a showdown with newly promoted side Leigh Centurions.

Leigh’s return to the Betfred Super League will mean a reunion with Castleford for the first time since 2017 when the Ford’s won both games comfortably. A lot has changed since then of course, with Leigh veteran John Duffy taking over in 2019 and then helping to gradually assemble a squad capable of challenging for Super League in the years since.

After the exit of Toronto Wolfpack from Super League last year, Leigh lodged a successful bid to be the team to take the place of the 12th and final team for 2021 back in December. Their return was followed by the acquisition of numerous high-profile signings including former

Tiger Jamie Ellis and Tyrone McCarthy which will be key in their battle for survival.

Never afraid to back down from a tough encounter, Leigh are out to let teams know they have little regard for reputations and will be a big test for Super League’s clubs in 2021 as Wigan found out in their Round One encounter!

Some may be disappointed with the manner of their return and to see yet another “M62 side” in the top flight, however John Duffy and his squad replete with experienced Super League talent will no doubt relish the chance to prove the sceptics wrong and show that they belong.

JORDAN THOMPSON Thompson is a player that should be more than familiar to Fords’ fans having made over 78 appearances at The Jungle in a four-year period.

A strong runner on the edge, and equally ferocious in defence, he will be keen to put one over his old side when he makes his return to Wheldon Road.

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Match Preview : 22, april 2021

WIGAN WARRIORS

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

JOHN BATEMAN Two years in the NRL and Bateman is back in England and better than ever. A real hit down under, reaching an NRL Grand Final and winning a Dally M Second Row award with Canberra, the Bradford-born star will want to waste no time continuing his run of success on his return to Super League.

ZAK HARDAKER An instrumental part of Cas’ 2017 side from fullback, Hardaker has slotted into Wigan’s line-up at centre in recent seasons with an equally impressive impact. He’s a man with unfinished business in Super league – his missed penalty in the dying moments of the 2020 final giving Saints the chance to score at the hooter – and he will remain a real handful for the Tigers in both attack and defence.

The Tigers’ fourth game of the 2021 season and they don’t come much harder than facing the Cherry and Whites away.

Perennially a top team in Super League and out to prove a point after losing last year’s Grand Final in heart-breaking fashion to a last-minute try, Wigan will represent a real test for Daryl Powell’s side this early in the season.

Last year’s meetings saw an undermanned Castleford Tigers down the visiting Warriors 16-12 at the MendA-Hose Jungle in February prior to lockdown, but the Cherry and Whites put on a strong showing for the rematch in August, coming from behind to secure a 30-22 victory en route to the 2020 League Leaders’ Shield.

Adrian Lamb isn’t one to rest on his laurels however and the return of John

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Bateman alongside the capture of Jai Field will boost an already immensely talented pool of players. The Lancashirebased outfit will already have set their sights on Old Trafford in October. They began their season with a come-frombehind win against newly promoted Leigh and will no doubt be keen to prove they still are the measuring stick for Super League’s sides going into April.

With Cas aiming to compete for silverware at the end of the season, it’s more than likely that the Warriors will be there too, standing in the way, so this early season clash will be a real opportunity for the Fords to show they can run with the very best in the competition.

SAM POWELL An ever-present in the League Leaders’ Shield winning side of 2020, Powell racked up 12 tries across 18 appearances and has quietly worked his way up to be considered one of the top hookers in the Betfred Super League with his “old-school” style of play in the middle. A two-time Grand Final Winner with Wigan, he’ll be eager to add to that number in 2021.

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MATCH PREVIEW : vs salford red devils, 30, april 2021

SALFORD RED DEVILS

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

KALLUM WATKINS The centre looks to be back to his best form after joining Salford, on his day he has been in the past one of the very best centres in Super League, with both pace and skill he will be a dangerous player in Salford’s back line.

ELIJAH TAYLOR The New Zealand international has some familiar faces at the Red Devils in Krisnan Inu and Sebastine Ikahihifo who he has previously played with, so he should settle into Salford’s system quickly. He has a reputation as a hard working backrower who can also slot into hooker.

The Fords’ final match of April will be an away trip to the AJ Bell Stadium to take on Salford Red Devils and will be live on Sky Sports.

Its an interesting time for Salford who are now under the stewardship of Richard Marshall following Ian Watson’s move to Huddersfield Giants. Marshall has been with the back-to-back champions St Helens for two seasons and now takes the leap into Head Coach at a Super League club, he has previously been the top man at Halifax and gained plaudits for his work.

The Red Devils loss was the Tigers gain in Niall Evalds, their record Super League try scorer who joined Castleford looking for a new challenge and to make the #1 spot his own. Another big loss in the off season for Salford was Gil Dudson who is now a Catalans Dragons player.

They have brought in several great signings for 2021 with Morgan Escare, Joe Burgess and Declan Patton the standout names joining from other Super League clubs, but their biggest new name is Elijah Taylor who made the move from NRL side Wests Tigers.

The last time Castleford and Salford met was back in September, in what Daryl Powell called a “mad” game, an 11-try thriller at Headingley in which Salford went 18-0 up in 11 minutes before Castleford took the lead back scoring 24 points in a row. The game finished 37-30 and secured Castleford’s first victory following the restart in 2020. Lots to look forward in this one then we hope!

DAN SARGINSON Sarginson made the move to join Salford for the 2020 season and showed off his high quality very quickly, even against his former side Wigan with a mammoth game winning tackle earning a memorable victory. Commonly thought of as a centre, he has proved to be a quality fullback and adds both great attack and defence to the backline.

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Milner reflects on his special testimonial match day!

A hard worked win for Castleford Tigers over Hull KR made Adam Milner’s testimonial match even more memorable for him, all the First Team wearing his very own strip and getting their first major hit out of 2021.

“It’s been a special day, a good win, first and foremost though it’s been good to get playing some rugby again and to get a win makes it extra special,” said Adam Milner.

“I’ve loved seeing all the boys out there with my shirt on, it’s a truly special day and one that I can log down in the memory book and cherish for the rest of my playing career.”

The Robins proved to be the tough test they expected to be, a perfect side to play just before the start of the Betfred Super League and a good win 20-30 away at Hull College Craven Park.

“They have threats all over the field and they play a particular brand of rugby that is dangerous, and you have got to keep honest throughout the field, with some big forwards and very strong outside backs too.

“We’re impressed with our performance in the first half before making some changes in the second half which tends to be the case in pre-season friendlies, but it was a good hit out for the boys and an impressive start from us. Having said all that though, there is still some things for us to build on.

I’ve loved seeing all the boys out there with my shirt on, it’s a truly special day and one that I can log down in the memory book and cherish for the rest of my playing career. “” “This time of the year usually everyone is itching for a game and we got the opportunity to blow off some cobwebs, that old cliché, and we are certainly looking forward to the start of the season now.”

The only real disappointment for Castleford fans was the promise of Adz on kicking duties proved to not be the case! Still Milner has that one memorable goal kick of his career against Warrington to remember.

“I was hoping to get one towards the back end, but I don’t want to ruin that 100% record that I’ve got! I’ll leave it to Gaz for the goal kicks…”

The match itself was broadcast live on a Facebook online event for just £4.99, with all the money made from the stream going directly into Adam Milner’s testimonial fund.

“It was quite overwhelming with all the people that tuned in, a massive thanks to everyone who bought the stream I know it is not an ideal situation and I would have loved to have been playing at a packed-

out Jungle, but nonetheless thanks so much for buying the stream, I appreciate each and every one of you who got it.”

Testimonial matches are usually played at the home venue of the player, however, being these are strange and difficult times we live in and kindly Hull Kingston Rovers offered their stadium for free as a tester to host matches later down the road. Adz would have loved to have seen The Mend-A-Hose Jungle rocking and cannot wait to welcome back the Fords’ faithful to our home.

“It will be pretty sweet. We have missed the fans; the game has not been the same without you and walking out to games with no spectators is still strange.

I managed to get my mum and dad here which was a special moment for me but still no missus, no little lad, to get them in the crowd for me will be a special occasion again for myself. But we are certainly looking forward to a packed house at The Jungle once and for all and it will be truly special whenever that comes.” www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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castleford tigers women

ANFIELD STEPS DOWN AS WOMEN’S HEAD COACH Castleford Tigers Women Head Coach Lindsay Anfield is to step down from her role with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

Following a highly successful tenure overseeing the growth of the women’s game, Anfield leaves the club after five years in charge culminating in a raft of finals as well as winning the WSL in 2019.

Renowned for her commitment and outstanding work ethic, Lindsay will take time away from coaching the club side to spend time with her young family and focus on her role as Head of PE at De Lacy Academy.

Lindsay said: “It’s with a heavy heart that I’ve taken the decision to leave the Tigresses. The current Pandemic has led to vastly increased pressures and expectations on the women’s

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game, and I feel it is now the right time to step away. It has been an honour to work with such a talented and dedicated group of players and staff, all of whom I will continue to support from the sidelines.”

Anfield will continue to be involved as an assistant with the England Women’s Team in preparation for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup. Castleford Tigers Community Director Simon Fox, said, “Lindsay has been iconic in driving the women’s game forward, both in Castleford and nationally. Her high standards and outstanding worth ethic leave the women’s

April 2021 www.castlefordtigers.com

team well placed to take on the challenges of 2021.

I have had a great working relationship with Lindsay and fully understand and support her reasons to step down. I think I speak for us all when I say she will be hugely missed in the sport. We wish her well and she remains very welcome at the club and The Mend-A-Hose Jungle.”

Assistant Coaches Marie Colley and Kirsty Moroney will take temporary charge of the Tigresses whilst the club seek a new Head Coach.

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WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE FIXTURES ANNOUNCED

The Betfred Women’s Super League returns on Sunday 18 April and the RFL, in association with In Touch productions, will show one live game each week via Twitch.

CASTLEFORD TIGERS WOMEN 2021 BETFRED WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE FIXTURE LIST In the opening round of fixtures, reigning champions Leeds Rhinos entertain York City Knights as part of a doubleheader featuring a local derby between Castleford Tigers and Featherstone Rovers. Both games will take place behind closed doors at Sport Park Weetwood, Leeds, whilst at Warrington’s Victoria Park the Wolves take on Wigan Warriors and Bradford Bulls will play St Helens in the other Round 1 fixtures.

Warrington Wolves are one of the newcomers to the expanded, 10-club competition, the other being Huddersfield Giants who will make their Betfred Women’s Super League bow against the Wolves a fortnight later in Round 2.

The repeat of the 2019 Grand Final between Castleford and Leeds is scheduled for Sunday June 13, when there will be another derby across the Pennines as St Helens face Wigan.

There will be 10 rounds of fixtures during the regular season, with clubs playing each other once before the top four break away to take part in a play-off series with a Grand Final place at stake.

The remaining six teams will compete

for places in the final of the Betfred Women’s Super League Shield, with both finals taking place at the Emerald Headingley Stadium on Sunday 10 October.

Thomas Brindle, Betfred Women’s Super League General Manager, says: “During the last week we have unveiled the National Lottery as a new commercial partner to the RFL and in particular Women’s and Girls’ Rugby League, we’ve published a new report demonstrating the significant social impacts of Women’s and Girls’ Rugby League – These Girls Can - and we’ve announced that October’s Grand Final will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

“Now, I’m pleased to announce that via Twitch we’ll be showing live action from the Betfred Women’s Super League every week of the regular season, with match coverage repeated later the same week on Our League. We had a really encouraging response when we showed some games on Twitch in 2019 – it takes us to a new, younger audience, with 15m daily active users and 76% of viewers aged 18-49.”

ROUND 1 | SUNDAY 18TH APRIL

FEATHERSTONE ROVERS (H)

ROUND 2 | SUNDAY 2ND MAY

WAKEFIELD TRINITY (A)

ROUND 3 | SUNDAY 16TH MAY

BYE

ROUND 4 | SUNDAY 30TH MAY

YORK CITY KNIGHTS (A)

ROUND 5 | SUNDAY 13TH JUNE

LEEDS RHINOS (H)

ROUND 6 | SUNDAY 20TH JUNE

WIGAN WARRIORS (A)

ROUND 7 | SUNDAY 4TH JULY

ST HELENS (H)

ROUND 8 | SUNDAY 11TH JULY

HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS (A)

ROUND 9 | SUNDAY 18TH JULY

WARRINGTON WOLVES (A)

ROUND 10 | SUNDAY 25TH JULY

BRADFORD BULLS (H)

www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Mick Morgan Hi Cas fans!

Some action at last and to quote the old saying, a win’s a win! Even a pre-season friendly, you want to win! Daryl Powell will be cursing me, “It’s a trial match, not a flippin’ friendly!” would be his response. He’s right of course and it’s a good opportunity to see where the team is at, not only with the result but with fitness levels as well.

I have to admit I didn’t see the Hull KR game as you probably well know, I’m not in the world of computers and mobile phones! However I was glad to hear Jake Trueman and Niall Evalds take a lot of the plaudits. Jake Trueman especially with his running game back up to speed, I have always admired his ball-handling and kicking skills, but his running game is also devastating, good to see it back.

My informant told me, Niall Evalds was here there and everywhere, and every time someone made a break, he was there backing up. Fullback is the only position in rugby league where you are not man-marked and have a license to thrill and Evalds can certainly do that.

Come the season for real and what an impressive start to the year! A superb opening performance with the Tigers putting the Wolves to the sword. The fitness levels were impressive, well done to all concerned with the fitness programme!

I was impressed with the new recruits, especially Niall Evalds and Jordan Turner, both making try scoring debuts! Evalds is class and Turner is a real asset with his ability to play a number of positions. I thought all four props who took the field did an excellent job, making a lot of hard yards down the middle, making it easy for Jake Trueman to dictate the game!

Losing Gareth O’Brien early in the game was a blow but step up to the plate current Man of Steel, Paul McShane: He slotted into the half back position effortlessly and when both sides were struggling with goal kicking, Macca took over and kicked a vital touchline conversion before using his rugby brain and putting Warrington to the sword with a one-pointer to put the game out of the Wolves’ reach, class!

Finally, I would like to pay tribute to our Head Coach Daryl Powell, who will be leaving at the end of the season. Daryl took us to another level, taking us to a Challenge Cup final, a Grand Final and also winning the League Leaders’ Shield in a memorable 2017 campaign. He has also changed the way Cas play which for me was easy on the eye and fantastic viewing for the neutral. Let us hope the players can give him a winning send off!

Morgy!

Cheers

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Born To Be A Cas Fan

Castleford Tigers Heritage Project

The Memoirs of Geoff Smith – Castleford Rugby League Players Association

Following on from last month’s article, the mid-1950s continued to see the team in the doldrums by early in 1958 the appointment of Harry Street as First Team Coach was to see a change of direction and to create an U17s and u19s team to develop young local talent.

The 1958/59 Season saw the club bring young players to Wheldon Road: Future British Lions, Peter Small, Bill Bryant, Alan Hardisty, and Keith Hepworth being early signings. The next couple of seasons saw more young players come on board and Cas steadily started to climb the league table.

Centre Peter Small was selected for the 1962 British Lions Tour Down Under – only the second player in the club’s history at the time following the legendary Arthur Atkinson.

The 1962/63 season was remembered more for the weather than the rugby. And the game’s format changed from one league to two divisions with Cas finishing in 4th out of 16 teams in the new 1st division. More young signings were to follow with Jack Gamble, Keith Howe, Derek Edwards, and Dougie Walton coming on board and they were joined by Featherstone Rovers’ winger Frank Smith whose father also Frank was a Wembley winner with Cas in 1935.

My own time as a Cas fan was about to get more exciting with the 1963/63

season proving the team’s progress was well on track: November 13th 1963 was for me an iconic date when the touring Australian side arrived at Wheldon Road full of confidence after two easy test match victories versus Great Britain. With the game entering the closing stages, the Aussies were winning and attacking the Railway End when they spilled the ball and Big Frank Smith scooped up the loose ball and ran almost the length of the pitch to score a wonder try giving Cas a 13-12 victory! On the day, Johnny Ward scored two tries in a man of the match performance that gained him selection for the final test and the Cas no. 9 scored Great Britain’s first try when the tourists were beaten 16-5.

The season’s thrills continued with an exciting cup run taking the team within touching distance of Wembley: Splendid away victories at St Helens, Whitehaven, Blackpool prior to a semi-final tussle with Widnes at Swinton’s station Road. The game finished 7-7 on the day as Winger Keith Howe received a serious shoulder injury as Cas had to play some of the game a player short (no subs in those days!) The replay took place at Wakefield’s Belle Vue with Widnes winning 7-5 and going on to the beat Hull KR at Wembley to win the cup.

CASTLEFORD RUGBY LEAGUE THROWBACK BACK ROW: K. Howe 2 - D. Jones 12 - J. Hirst 8 - J. Clark 10 - J. Walker 13 - W. Bryant 11 FRONT ROW: K. Hepworth 7 P. Small 4 - J. Ward 9 - A. Hardisty 6 (Captain) - D. Edwards 1 K. Bell 3 - F. Smith 5 During the season more young players came on board and Cas players were being noticed by International and County selectors with Jack Hirst, Frank Smith, and Johnny Walker being picked for Yorkshire while Alan Hardisty, Bill Bryant, and Johnny Ward played for Great Britain against France in Perpignan to put the icing on what had been the finest season is my time following Cas. The team had now become something special with the promise fo more to come!

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youth feature

Tigers announce Midlands Tigers Talent Pathway Hub CASTLEFORD TIGERS ARE PROUD OF THEIR CONNECTIONS TO THE SPORT WHICH STRETCH BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL HEARTLANDS AND HOPE TO BE PART OF THE PROCESS OF DEVELOPING YOUNG TALENT ACROSS THE UK. The club have had informal ties to the region’s rugby league for several years now and the development of players in the area is underlined in their development of current First Team player Lewis Peachey, who was secured a scholarship from Nottingham a few years ago having initially attended the Tigers Talent Pathway programme.

Additionally both Emma Lumley and Sophie Todd both started their rugby league journey at Nottingham Outlaws before progressing to the Castleford Tigers Women’s team.

Whilst not an area you’d traditionally associate with rugby league, Nottingham has been home to the sport since the 1980s, with club Nottingham Outlaws (formerly Nottingham Crusaders) running a junior setup for over 15 years. Having worked to identify talent in the area before, the club’s youth staff are well aware of the talent available in the area, with many union players possessing transferable skills that are highly valued in the 13-man code.

Speaking about his own path into rugby league, First Team Tiger Lewis Peachey said: “The Midlands is an area that gets sometimes gets ‘missed’ a bit by the sport: the focus is obviously more Northern but I came across the game through Nottingham Outlaws and I feel

if we can grow the game in the area and this partnership will be great not only for the sport but also for the young players that want to play rugby league!”

It is hoped that the partnership and the launch of a new Tigers Talent Pathway Hub in the East Midlands will help local players in the community game access a progression route that will hopefully lead to the development and nurturing of local talent for rugby league as a whole, whilst also giving an opportunity for coaches to develop their own skills.

Head of Youth Performance at Castleford Tigers Darren Higgins: “It’s great to be able to confirm this partnership with the Nottingham Outlaws and the launch of a Tigers Talent Pathway hub for the midlands region. As a club we are very mindful of the potential talent that exists not only outside of the traditional M62 corridor but in other sports as well.

Lewis Peachey is a prime example of this having been signposted to the TTP programme by Joe Shepherd from the Outlaws, having had very little Rugby League playing experience. The rugby

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April 2021 www.castlefordtigers.com

union playing pool in the midlands region is considerable and this hub will provide a great opportunity to engage with and identify potential talent whilst hopefully supporting the Nottingham Outlaws to grow the game in the area.”

Joe Shepherd, Director of Coaching, Nottingham Outlaws “We’re delighted to be launching this formal partnership with Castleford Tigers. We’ve known Darren Higgins for several years, from his excellent work in the Midlands as a Talent Coach with the RFL, and the Outlaws share very similar philosophies on player development with those at Castleford.

“This exciting link up will enable local players to start playing rugby league with Nottingham Outlaws, and progress along our pathway to reach an appropriate level for themselves. Those players with sufficient talent will have the opportunity to progress on the highest levels of the game with Castleford Tigers, just as we’ve seen with the likes of Lewis, Emma and Sophie.”

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youth feature

FOLLOWING LAST MONTH’S ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE RFL THAT SUPER LEAGUE AND CHAMPIONSHIP SIDES WITH ACADEMIES ARE ABLE TO BEGIN PRE-SEASON TRAINING FROM THE 8TH MARCH, THE TIGERS’ SCHOLARSHIP AND UNDER 19S SIDES HAVE BACK IN ACTION AND MAKING UP FOR LOST TIME WITH IT HAVING BEEN NEARLY 12 MONTHS SINCE THEY LAST PLAYED COMPETITIVE RUGBY LEAGUE. Both squads have been training at Castleford Panthers ARL ground under the instruction of the Tigers’ Scholarship and Academy coaches. All players have to fill out Covid wellness report on the morning of sessions and undertake temperature checks on arrival.

Alongside these provisions, all Youth players are continuing to receive weight training sessions via Zoom, alongside other education session including sports psychology coaching and nutrition classes.

Regarding a return to competitive play, there is an early indication from the RFL of a mid-May start for the Under 19s who will play in a programme of fixtures rather than a rigidly structured league format.

Meanwhile Under 17s will play a series of 4 games (in order to compensate for missed games at U16s’ level last year), whilst also remaining eligible to play under 19s’ rugby.

Under 16s will also player 4 games with U16s’ players also being permitted to play in U17s’ games, whilst Under 15s will be able to play in U16s’ games.

Head of Youth Performance, Darren Higgins was delighted to see both Academy and Scholarship sides returning to play after a long absence:

“Both scholarship and under 19’s academy squads are a few weeks back into training now and have returned in great condition and hit the ground running despite such a long time away from the club. Coaching teams and strength and conditioning staff are doing a fantastic job in terms of striking the balance of not doing too much too soon from a physical perspective and

mixing up how sessions are run from a rugby perspective as we work towards playing again.

We are also extremely grateful to the help of Castleford Panthers ARL who have accommodated training sessions for both squad and look forward getting back into playing again which all the lads are raring to do”

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Castleford Tigers College Prospectus Now Available The Foundation are delighted to announce that the 2021 Castleford Tigers College Prospectus is now available to download and read online via the Foundation website: castlefordtigersfoundation.co.uk/ The prospectus covers all of the College’s offerings for the 2021/22 academic year including nationally recognised level 1, 2, and 3 courses as well as traineeships, and Foundation degrees offered in partnership with Leeds City College.

Also included is an application form to enrol on the Tigers College courses for this year as well as more information regarding individual courses.

Whether you’re a young learner approaching their 16+ options decisions, or simply someone wanting to add a new skill or qualification, the Castleford Tigers College has a course to help you on the next step of your education journey!

#CasCommunityChallenge reaches Australia!

Participants in the #CasCommunityChallenge, first organised by Castleford Academy with support from the Foundation, have now walked, ran, and cycled the 16,000km needed to reach Australia!

The challenge was originally designed to encourage Castleford Academy pupils and members of the local community to stay active in January’s lockdown and had an original target

to cover the approximate 2,500km needed to reach all of the Tigers’ opponents’ grounds in 2021.

However after that target was smashed within a few weeks, the organisers set a more ambitious target of reaching Mackay in Queensland, Australia.

Appearing on BBC’s Look North, the challenge has been a terrific success and a real “feel good” story in turbulent times and well done to all participants who have contributed to reaching the colossal target! www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Wirehouse are proud club partners of the Tigers 46

April 2021 www.castlefordtigers.com

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Tigers Welcome Wirehouse!

The club are proud to announce Wirehouse Employer Services as HR and Safety partners ahead of the start of the coming season.

The nationally recognised Northern-based firm bring over 40 years combined experience from their founders John and Mike Malley as Wirehouse provide businesses of all shapes and sizes with expert HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety advice and support with offices in Warrington, Cheshire and Glasgow and a wider network of consultants based all across the UK. An exclusive offer to come out of the partnership means that businesses looking to use Wirehouse’s services can sign up and receive a 10% discount by quoting the code: TIGER001.

Wirehouse becomes the latest company to join the Fords’ team of dedicated partners, who continue to support the club through a turbulent time for many businesses and the Tigers would like to take this opportunity to thank all our corporate supporters for their backing in 2021.

Mike Malley Wirehouse Managing Director said of the partnership:

“Rugby is a sport really close to my heart, from grassroots all the way up. This year has had such an impact on all aspects of our everyday lives, and the Sports sector has had more than its fair share of disruption. It’s a fantastic opportunity to partner with the Tigers and to share our HR and Health & Safety knowledge and expertise with the club and beyond. We look forward to a successful season both on and off the pitch!”

Craig Jeffels Head of Commercial Partnerships spoke about the deal saying: “I am pleased to welcome Wirehouse Employer Services to the Tigers as our new HR and Safety Partner for the next 2 years. The transition from our former HR and safety provider has been made much easier with their guidance and professionalism during the whole process. Keep an eye out for Wirehouse pitch side here at the Tigers, and if you are looking to secure a new HR & Safety partner for your business give them a call!” www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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Keyless entry,2021 Multiview camera and climate control available on Prestige. Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto® available from Comfort.

48 April www.castlefordtigers.com

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MEET THE COACHES NIGHT!

THE LATEST CASTLEFORD TIGERS SUPPORTERS CLUB VIRTUAL EVENT WAS HELD IN MARCH AND OFFERED AN EXCLUSIVE INSIGHT FROM OUR COACHING STAFF ABOUT THE PRE-SEASON AND THEIR THOUGHTS AND PREPARATION DONE AHEAD OF BETFRED SUPER LEAGUE 2021!

On the event were Head Coach Daryl Powell, Assistant Coach Ryan Sheridan, Head Physiotherapist Matty Crowther, Head of Analysis Ste Mills and Head of Strength & Conditioning Jamie Bell.

All five were asked about their feelings on the 2021 pre-season, what’s been different this time around and a couple of players they are tipping to have a big year!

Fans were also able to add their own questions in on the night and discussions came up about the new rules, how COVID precautions

have affected training and if the staff had been in communication with the officials ahead of the new campaign.

The CTSC, in conjunction with Castleford Tigers itself, have been aiming to provide their members an exclusive event once a month for their membership and in April it will be a Meet the Youth Department Night. A great opportunity to find out even more on the youth systems in place at the Fords.

To register your interest head to ctsc.org.uk www.castlefordtigers.com April 2021

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2021 season r

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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF CASTLEFORD TIGERS

Round

H/A

Comp

Win/ Lose

Score

Fullback

R Wing

R Centre

L Centre

L Wing

Stand Off

14:45 Warrington Wolves

H

SL

W

21-12

EVALDS 1T

OLPHERTS

MATA‘UTIA

SHENTON

TURNER 2T

TRUEMAN

15:00 Leeds Rhinos

A

SL

A

CC

Date

K/O

Opposition

MARCH 1

28th

APRIL 2

2nd

CCR3

From 10th

3

16th

18:00 Leigh Centurions

H

SL

4

22nd

18:00 Wigan Warriors

A

SL

5

30th

19:45 Salford Red Devils

A

SL

TBC

Hull KR

MAY 6

From 13th

TBC

Hull KR

H

SL

7

From 20th

TBC

Warrington Wolves

A

SL

8

From 27th

TBC

Leeds Rhinos

H

SL

JUNE 9

From 10th

TBC

Hull FC

H

SL

10

From 17th

TBC

Wakefield Trinity

A

SL

11

From 24th

TBC

Catalans Dragons

H

SL

JULY 12

From 1st

TBC

St Helens

H

SL

13

From 4th

TBC

Huddersfield Giants

A

SL

14

From 9th

TBC

Salford Red Devils

H

SL

15

From 22nd

TBC

Catalans Dragons

A

SL

16

From 29th

TBC

Leigh Centurions

A

SL

AUGUST 17

From 1st

TBC

Huddersfield Giants

H

SL

18

From 6th

TBC

Leeds Rhinos

A

SL

19

From 12th

TBC

St Helens

A

SL

20

From 19th

TBC

Wakefield Trinity

H

SL

21

From 26th

TBC

Hull FC

A

SL

22

30th

TBC

Wigan Warriors

H

SL

MW

SL

SEPTEMBER 23

4th

TBC

Salford Red Devils

24

From 9th

TBC

Hull KR

A

SL

25

From 16th

TBC

Warrington Wolves

H

SL

52

April 2021 www.castlefordtigers.com

record

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Scrum Half

Prop

Hooker

Prop

2nd Row

2nd Row

Loose Fwd

O‘BRIEN 1G

GRIFFIN

MCSHANE 1G 1DG

MILLINGTON

HOLMES 1T

BLAIR

MASSEY

Int Change Int Change Int Change Int Change

MILNER

SMITH

O‘NEILL

WATTS

Attn

N/A

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