Rugby League Roundup: Hits and Misses of the 2024 Super League Season
As the 2024 Super League season approaches the halfway mark, it’s time to take a closer look at some of the notable player signings that have hit the mark and those that have fallen short of expectations.
Earlier this month, we highlighted the top 10 signings that have made a significant impact so far. Now, we delve into the moves that haven’t quite panned out as planned, in alphabetical order by surname.
Waqa Blake (St Helens):
Joining from the NRL’s Parramatta Eels, the outside back was tipped to be a marquee addition for the reigning champions. However, Blake has struggled to find his footing at the Totally Wicked Stadium, leading to a spell on the sidelines. Despite showing signs of improvement upon his return, the Fijian international has been inconsistent, and his future remains uncertain with his one-year contract set to expire.
Fa’amanu Brown (Hull FC):
The New Zealand and Samoa international arrived at the MKM Stadium from the Newcastle Knights but featured in just eight games before departing for “compassionate grounds” in mid-April, later joining the St George Illawarra Dragons in the NRL.
Brad Dwyer (Warrington Wolves):
After leaving Hull FC, the hooker re-joined Warrington but failed to feature in a competitive game for the Wolves, making a lone appearance in a pre-season friendly before securing a loan and then a permanent move to Leigh.
Jayden Nikorima (Catalans Dragons):
The New Zealander’s time in Perpignan was cut short in mid-July when he, along with two teammates, skipped training to attend a concert, leading to the termination of his two-year contract. Nikorima has since joined Salford, where he has impressed.
David Nofoaluma (Salford Red Devils):
The high-profile signing from the Wexts Tigers struggled to settle in Salford, making just two appearances before departing, with the club never officially confirming his exit.
Jayden Okunbor (Hull FC):
The Canterbury Bulldogs utility player signed a two-year deal with Hull FC but made only eight appearances before moving on loan to Bradford and then securing a permanent move to the Championship club.
Franklin Pele (Hull FC):
The ex-Canterbury Bulldogs prop was sent off on debut for Hull FC against rivals Hull KR and struggled to make an impact, spending time on loan at York before departing the MKM Stadium.
Nixon Putt (Castleford Tigers):
The Papua New Guinean forward has failed to cement a regular place in the Castleford side, making just seven appearances and spending time on loan or dual-registration with Newcastle Thunder and Batley Bulldogs. He is expected to return to his homeland at the end of the season.
Ben Reynolds (Hull KR):
The half-back joined Hull KR on a permanent deal from Featherstone Rovers but made just two appearances for the Robins before returning to Featherstone.
Andre Savelio (Huddersfield Giants):
The forward signed a two-year contract with the Giants from Hull FC but has endured a difficult start, being sent off twice in his first few games for the club.
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