Fax sign up new half back pair

Halifax have confirmed a new half back partnership for the 2012 season by announcing the captures of Anthony Thackeray and Paul Handforth.

Paul is to be reunited with Karl Harrison after the pair enjoyed a successful 2011 season at Batley. New Coach Harrison expressed how keen he was to bring the well organised Handforth to The Shay.

“Paul’s a real old fashioned scrum half who has some great leadership skills. He guides people around the park well and gets the best from people. 

“He’s a great lad to have around the dressing room and I’m delighted to link up with again. He always tests you and knows a great deal about the game. 

“He had a good thing at Batley, and it was a tough choice for him to come to Halifax, but he saw it as a new challenge, and like me, he’s excited to get into it.”

Paul, who also had spells at Caslteford and Wakefield before moving Batley, has been one of the most consistent Championship performers in recent seasons and is renowned for having a superior kicking game and hard working mentality.

Fellow new signing Thackeray, who spent most of the 2011 season on loan at York, was on the books at Widnes but was deemed to be surplus to requirements after the club’s recent promotion to Super League.

Harrison commented “He’s a complete contrast to Paul and should bring a whole new dimension to the Club. He’s a great opportunist and takes on the line well. An absolute nightmare for defences, and like Paul, has a great kicking game. 

Time will tell, but we could potentially have a fantastic mix of halfback, with Paul being the calming influence to Anthony’s off the cuff style.”

Whilst these new signings point towards a new half back partnership, there is still no word on whether Ben Black, Anthony Bowman or Danny Jones will remain at The Shay next season.

Club Director Ian Croad said “We’re talking to a lot of people, both current players and those outside of the Club.”

“As a Club though we won’t be commenting on anybody who isn’t definitely a Halifax player. Until a player signs for the Club or leaves, then their future are up in the air.”