Exclusive: Hull KR’s new signing opens up on Featherstone experience

Hull KR’s new signing Frankie Halton was only at Featherstone Rovers a year – but it was enough to earn him a Super League deal at Rovers.

After playing a key role in his debut season for the Swinton Lions in 2020 – making over 20 appearances and earning a call-up to the Ireland squad for their World Cup qualifiers – Halton was captured by Featherstone ahead of the 2021 Championship season.

Although Halton and Rovers failed to win promotion, it’s an experience that the rangy back-rower looks back on fondly.

“I really enjoyed my time at Featherstone,” Halton told Serious About Rugby League.

“I learnt a lot there from Webbo (James Webster) and experienced players like Fez (Brett Ferres) who both had time for me and helped me fine tune my game in areas I needed.

“It was a shame we couldn’t go out on a high but I’m sure they’ll be challenging for promotion again this year.

Excelling out wide for Rovers, Halton came onto the radar of many Super League clubs and others in the Championship, but he had his sights set on Hull KR.

“I had a bit of interest off Championship teams and another Super League club but nothing formal was tabled before signing for KR,” Halton added.

“As soon as I went and met Tony Smith and Danny McGuire I feel like i was only going to go to KR.”