Niall Evalds Emerges as Surprise Star for Hull KR
On the eve of the 2024 Super League season, much of the pre-season buzz centered around high-profile signings like Brodie Croft, Luke Thompson, and Nu Brown, and their potential impact. However, one under-the-radar recruit has proven to be a game-changer for his new club. That man is Niall Evalds, who joined Hull KR from the Castleford Tigers.
Evalds signed a two-year deal with the Robins back in August 2023, but he may have missed out on the pre-season hype. Nevertheless, the experienced fullback has been pivotal to Hull KR’s impressive start to the campaign. In just 11 appearances so far, Evalds has scored five tries and, more significantly, provided 15 assists – the most in Super League.
The 30-year-old got off to a flying start, scoring twice in the Robins’ 22-0 thrashing of local rivals Hull FC on the opening night. That brace was a welcome return to form for Evalds, who had struggled with injuries over the previous two seasons, featuring in just 17 games.
“Securing his services until at least 2026 will be a top priority for the club.”
Despite his slow start in Rounds 2 and 4, Evalds’ fortunes turned when head coach Willie Peters moved him to his favored fullback position, unlocking his playmaking abilities. With zero assists in his first three outings, Evalds has since registered 15, the most in the league, eclipsing the likes of Jonny Lomax and Brodie Croft.
Evalds’ best performance came in Hull KR’s recent victory over London, where he scored two tries and provided four assists, underlining his status as one of Super League’s elite fullbacks. The Robins have scored the most tries in the competition this season, with Evalds directly involved in over 25% of them.
While the pre-season focus was on other high-profile signings, Niall Evalds has proven to be the under-the-radar recruit who has transformed Hull KR’s fortunes.
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