RL Today: Mitchell Pearce praise, Wigan coach relishing challenge & eager Zane Tetevano

Praise for Mitchell Pearce

Toulouse star Johnathon Ford thinks France is perfect for Catalans’ new recruit Mitchell Pearce. (The Sun)

On Pearce, Ford told The Sun: “I played and trained alongside Mitchell at the Roosters. I haven’t seen him for a while, so it would be good to rub shoulders with someone who for me is one of the best halves in the world.”

Zane Tetevano eyeing big 2022

Zane Tetevano says he is targeting a better Super League season in 2022. (Yorkshire Evening Post)

He told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “There were definitely some nerves coming into the first day and week of training. We had a couple of training sessions before we came back in. It was good to get away and freshen up, but good to be back as well.”

New Hull recruit feeling at home

Kane Evans says he already feels at home at Hull FC.

He told the club’s website: “I really enjoyed getting to know everybody. All of the boys have a really good energy and they’ve given me such a warm welcome, so I feel at home already. From what I’ve heard, Hull has some really good spots which I’m looking forward to checking out.”

Kenny Edwards raring to go

Castleford’s new recruit Kenny Edwards says he is raring to go ahead of the 2022 campaign. (The Yorkshire Post)

Edwards has arrived at the Tigers from Huddersfield. He told The Yorkshire Post: “I’m raring to go. I’m fitter than what I was, I’ve had a bit of time away from the game and I just want to put my best foot forward for Castleford Tigers.”

Matt Peet embracing Wigan challenge

New Wigan coach Matt Peet is embracing the pressure ahead of his first Super League season. (Mirror)

Peet told the Mirror: “I’m excited about it. That’s why I’m at Wigan. From that sense I don’t know any different – I’ve been at the club a long time and I know the expectation. I’ve always just seen it as part of the fabric of the club. I know there’s a lot more pressure on me personally now but that’s what excites me – if I can enjoy it then the players can.”

Leigh’s latest NRL signing

Leigh have signed prop Tom Amone from NRL side Wests Tigers ahead of the 2022 Championship season.

The 24-year-old made eight appearances for the Tigers in the NRL last season. He spent two seasons at South Sydney Rabbitohs between 2019-20, playing nine games.

Amone’s father Asa was a dual-code international for Tonga. Asa played in the 1897 Rugby Union World Cup and in the 1995 Rugby League World Cup. He also played alongside Leigh’s current head of rugby Chris Chester at Halifax.

The Centurions have also been linked with a move for Lachlan Lam, the son of coach Adrian.

Birthdays

Australia and Queensland legend Wally Lewis turns 62 today (December 1).

Also celebrating; Keighley full-back Quentin Laulu-Togaga’e (37).

Trivia

Wally Lewis won the first ever Golden Boot award in 1984.