Round 3: Five Players to Watch

Who you should keep your eye on in round three...

New signings, youngsters fulfilling potential and experienced players playing to their best of their ability. 

These are the five players to watch this weekend, they’ve had a great start to the year and their stats back it up. 

Ligi Sao

Lee Radford described his new signing in the off-season as the ‘fittest Polynesian you’ll come across’, Ligi Sao, is living up to that billing. 

The powerful forward has played 111 minutes in the first two rounds, and his stats have been rewarding for FC.

After two rounds he has made; 240 metres, 7 offloads and 59 tackles. 

Matty Ashton

Matty Ashton signed for Warrington Wolves from Swinton Lions at the end of last season. He was the 2019 Betfred Championship Player of the Year. 

A somewhat unknown prospect, who has worked his way up from the depth of rugby league, Ashton, has been one of the highlights of Super League this season.

His raw pace has had Warrington fans on the edge of their seats and he will get his first try of the season this weekend. 

Ben Crooks

Ben Crooks the current top try scorer, he’s scored five tries in just two games. 

The opening round of the season he scored four tries against Wakefield to kickstart Hull KR’s season. 

His fifth try of the season came in the Hull derby against his old side Hull FC. 

Can the winger score for the third game on the bounce? 

Morgan Smithies

Morgan Smithies was one of the nominees for the 2019 Young Player of the Year after making his debut for the club aged 18. 

Last year, he set a record for the most tackles made in a single Super League game (72).  

The youngster has carried on his fine form and will share playing time with experienced forward Sean O’Loughlin the perfect forward to learn his trade. 

He’s played in both games to start the 2020 season, he has made 80 tackles and 155 metres.

Josh Griffin 

He’s currently the made the most metres in Super League (325), and Josh Griffin has been one of Hull FC’s most influential performers in the first two rounds. Albeit, the majority of Radford’s men have been very impressive.

Radford has compiled a team of powerful and athletic forwards – their backs are built in similar stature – it’s something opposing teams should be scared of.

Not only is Griffin the top metre maker, but he’s also made the most tackle busts (20) to go along with scoring a try and making an assist.

By Warren Holmes