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A real coup

Dave Lawrenson
9/10/2008

TWO Salford players have hailed the Reds for signing one of the best centres that they have ever played against.

Former New Zealand Test ace Willie Talau penned a two-year contract with the Reds this week having won a host of trophies in his five-year stint at St Helens.

And long-serving Salford players Stuart Littler and Malc Alker were delighted to hear that they will be playing alongside Talau when the Reds return to Super League next year.

Centre Littler, who was a direct opponent to Talau in several Super League meetings between St Helens and Salford, said: "Willie Talau has proven over the years that he is one of the best centres around.

"He is certainly one of the best centres that I’ve ever come up against. He is a quality all round player and I am delighted that I will be playing alongside him next year as opposed to against him.

"He may be 32 but anyone who has seen Saints play this year knows he still has a lot to offer. His signing is a real coup for the club."

Salford skipper Alker has been critical of Salford in the past for signing players coming towards the end of their careers. But he can certainly see the sense in Talau’s signing.

Alker said: "Willie is a really good player and his vast experience will be a big asset to us.

"We have a lot of young players here and they will learn a lot from training with and playing alongside a player like Willie.

"Everyone knows how difficult Super League is and you need quality experienced players like Willie. And it’s not like we have signed lots of players coming towards the end of their careers for next season. Willie is the only one."

Former Super League, Challenge Cup and world club champion Talau scored 16 tries in 29 appearances for Saints this year and his overall record for the club reads 66 touch downs in 152 games.

Talau, who joined Saints from Canterbury Bulldogs, played for New Zealand in the 2000 World Cup final at Old Trafford but he will play for Samoa in this year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.