Mariano opts for second year at Featherstone

Scotland international Frankie Mariano has signed a new one-year deal at Featherstone.

Mariano, 30, joined Rovers from Castleford ahead of the 2017 season and scored six tries in 21 appearances.

He said: “I am really excited to be moving forward into 2018 with Featherstone, it has been a pretty good year all around.

“It is going to be good working under John (Duffy), with a fresh start and a bit of a blank canvas.

“I think I have gone ok on the field, helping out in the front-row and playing in the back-row.

“We face some massive challenges next year but we will take them on wholeheartedly.

“I think the strong teams coming up – and the ones coming down – will bring the best out in us.”

Mariano is set to depart for Australia next month for the World Cup.

He has also previously played for Hull KR, Wakefield and Batley (loan).