Swinton Lions have announced a major signing from Newcastle Thunder to boost their back line in highly-rated 22-year-old Matty Beharrell.
Standing just 5ft 4in, Beharrell is the smallest player in the whole of Super League, but has impressed with the leadership and tactical nous Swinton are looking for.
The Hull native came through Hull KR’s Academy, and signed pro terms in 2012.
But a lack of opportunities and months spent training only to warm the bench led him away from Hull to Gateshead, where he got regular game-time with Newcastle.
In 20 games in League One last season Beharrell scored 10 tries and 25 goals for a 91-point haul, repeating the feat this season with six tries and 37 goals to push a three-figures points tally.
It represents a fine capture for head coach John Duffy, who said he was hugely excited to see the young player at Sedgley Park after a series of impressive displays against the Lions, in particular in the iPro Sport Cup semi-final.
“I am really excited to have signed a player of Matty’s quality,” said Duffy.
“I have watched him all year and have been very impressed with how he plays his game.
“He gets his team around the park, always wants the ball and isn’t afraid to throw his body in front of anyone.
“He is a natural half-back with all the qualities we have been looking for.”
Last week Beharrell landed the Young Player of the Year title at the prestigious Kingstone Press Championship & League 1 Awards at the Midland Hotel in Manchester.
Lions’ Chairman John Roddy added, “We are delighted to welcome Matty to the Swinton Lions.
“This is a very important signing for the club as we look to further strengthen our squad during 2016.”
More announcements on individual signings are expected to come later this week, and again after Swinton’s League One Semi-Final play-off match this weekend.
Main image © Newcastle Thunder
