Murphy ready for Crusaders chance

Crusaders full back Jamie Murphy is looking to make up for lost time after a frustrating start to his time in North Wales.

The 21-year-old emerged from last week’s 20-12 friendly win over Widnes with considerable praise from head coach Iestyn Harris after his brace secured victory in his side’s first pre-season game.

Having joined the club from South Wales Scorpions in June, a series of niggling injuries has stalled the Wales ‘A’ international’s somewhat meteoric rise through the ranks, something Murphy admits has been a frustration.

“It was great to finally pull on the Crusaders jersey,” he said.

“I’ve been waiting eight months to play for my new team so I’m really happy that it went well.”
Murphy was one of a number of Welsh players in the squad for the Widnes clash and he believes the link between his previous and current club can only benefit rugby league in Wales.

“There are a lot of good players down in South Wales and they are now getting a chance to prove themselves in a competitive environment, similar to my opportunity at the Scorpions,” he added.

“And with Wales competing in the Four Nations this year it gives everyone an extra incentive.”

Despite impressing in his first audition, Murphy knows he may have to be patient when the season begins at Millennium Magic in less than a month’s time.

“We have an outstanding full back in Clinton Schifcofske so I may have to play in another position in order to get game time, which is no big deal. I just want to push on from here.”