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Lions swoop for two more players

24/11/2005

Rugby League

A POWERHOUSE prop and a centre starlet have penned contracts at Swinton Lions this week.

Pack man Richard Marshall has joined from Leigh Centurions. The 30-year-old has 170 Super League appearances under his belt with Halifax, Huddersfield, London and the Centurions while the club's other new signing is at the other end of the experience scale.

David Ashton was named Warrington Wolves' Academy player of the year last term but the 21-year-old is yet to play first team professional rugby.

Swinton coach Paul Kidd said: "I'm delighted to have the two players on board for next year.

"Richard will bring a lot to the club. He has plenty of experience and I expect him to lead by example.

"David, on the other hand, is an up and coming player with a big future ahead of him. He's got bags of talent and I can't wait to see him play for us."

Swinton are also in negotiations with a National League One second rower and Kidd is set to meet prop Rob Whittaker tonight, Thursday, November 24, to discuss a contract extension.

Kidd said: "If I get them both our 2006 squad will be more or less complete."

Released centre Chris Maye has been unveiled as a new signing for Oldham.

And Swinton have confirmed their first pre-season friendly will be against Super League giants Warrington Wolves. The game will be played at Park Lane on Wednesday, January 11, kick-off 7.30pm.

Salford City Reds will also lock horns with the Wolves in pre-season. The testimonial game for former Reds ace Mike Wainwright will be held in Warrington on Sunday, January 29, kick-off 3pm.