Scorpions tempt Union youngster

Play-off hopefuls South Wales Scorpions have strengthened their squad this week by tempting 21-year old Robin Lock to switch codes after signing from rugby union Premiership side Glamorgan Wanderers.

And he will be in familiar territory when he makes his Rugby League debut this Friday as he is expected to turn out for the Scorpions against Warrington Wolves in the challenge match at Cardiff Arms Park (kick-off 7.30pm) – a curtain raiser to this years Millennium Magic weekend.

The outside back, who has also played for Cardiff Blues under 20s, has been a regular for the Wanderers for the last three seasons and has turned out at the Arms Park a number of times in the past for both the Wanderers and the Blues.

Scorpions’ coach Aled James said: “I have been impressed with Robin’s skills for some time. He is an outside back who has performed well in the Welsh rugby union Premiership.  He has great speed and footwork and is a strong carrier of the ball and I think Rugby League will suit his type of play. He will be a big boost to us in our second season in professional Rugby League and we’re looking forward to seeing him in action against Warrington on Friday.”

In addition, Tylan Mafi has also signed for the club following a trial period. The Tongan impressed at open trials late last year and has been training with the club since then. He had a trial for Celtic Crusaders in 2006 and played in the club’s first game, a friendly against Harlequins. Injury prevented his progress but he has performed well for Bridgend Blue Bulls since then.

He is the nephew of former Warrington star Mateaki Mafi, who was in the Tongan 1995 Rugby League World Cup squad.

Tickets for South Wales Scorpions v Warrington Wolves, priced £10 for adults and £6 for concessions, can be bought online here at www.scorpionsrl.com.