How Ryan Hampshire faired for Castleford Tigers’ reserves this weekend

This week, it was revealed that Castleford had signed Ryan Hampshire and intended to give him a first taste for the reserves today.

Brought in most likely to cover the injured Niall Evalds, Hampshire started at fullback against Huddersfield Giants reserves perhaps to prepare him for the role ahead of the Tigers’ cup clash with rivals Leeds Rhinos next week after halfback Gareth O’Brien has been forced to start at fullback with Paul McShane at seven and prop George Lawler remarkably at hooker in recent weeks.

It went rather well for the former Wakefield man as he picked up a first half try in a 32-24 win over Huddersfield. The try came within the first 15 minutes on the back of a short side play with Cain Robb releasing Jason Qareqare down the wing on the halfway line. He then found Hampshire in support to crown his comeback with a four pointer.

However, he was somewhat overshadowed by Qareqare who scored a first half hat-trick as the Tigers took a 26-6 lead into the break.

Huddersfield had the better of the second half with Sam Hewitt, who featured heavily for the Giants first team last year, scoring a brace after exciting young hooker George Roby scored in the first half on the back of his own kick.

Louis Senior also figured for the Giants at fullback. His twin brother Innes is expected to start against Hull FC for the Giants’ first team this afternoon.