John Asiata is urging new Hull FC signing Will Pryce to come in and play his natural game ahead of a potential debut this weekend. Pryce has penned a three-year deal with the Black and Whites, joining the club from NRL side Newcastle Knights to provide creativity and firepower in the halves.
The 22-year-old only arrived in the country from Australia on Wednesday, but he is in the running to make his bow for John Cartwright’s side on Saturday when Hull host Hull KR in the Challenge Cup on Saturday. With Cade Cust ruled out through a head knock, the number six spot is open for Pryce and should get the nod to make a derby debut, he’ll be keen to grasp the opportunity to make himself a fan favourite in west Hull.
Given his position, Asiata will be working closely with the former Huddersfield Giants youngster moving forward and he admits he can’t wait to see the young man do his thing for Hull.
“It’s going to be great,” Asiata told Serious About RL. “Will is a very, very talented player and we’re excited. I’ve only ever played against him and I didn’t really get to watch him when he went to the NRL but the talent is there.
“For him it’s not about changing or doing anything different to what he’s used to. He’s just got to come and be himself, be the player he is and just bring what he brings to help the team. We’re all very excited to have him here over the next three years.
“I’m excited to work with him. I’ve been building a great combination with Sezer and Custy and Will is going to be different.
“I have to understand what he likes, in what ways he likes getting the ball and he’s probably going to be one of those players to give him the ball early and let him do his thing.”
This will be Asiata’s first taste of playing in a Hull derby having made the switch from Leigh Leopards over the off-season. The forward has sampled Leigh-Wigan battles in the past, while he has also been a part of the Queensland derby between North Queensland Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos.
The Hull derby is a little more intense than those, but Asiata feels he is experienced enough to handle the occasion.
“I’ve been in a lot of derby games to understand the importance of controlling your emotions,” the Hull FC vice-captain added. “Right now I’m pretty relaxed but I’m excited for the boys because I know for a lot of them, especially the ones who grew up here, how much it means to them and how much it splits families for that one week.
“One day at a time and when I’m away from footy my mind is off it. When I’m back in training I switch on but we’ll let the week build itself.
“I know a fair few [in Rovers’ camp], Kelepi, Waerea-Hargreaves, Hiku, even Tyrone May is from where I lived. I’ve known those guys a long time and I played with Kelepi with I was younger. It will be a great battle.”
📋 John Cartwright has named his 21-man squad ahead of Saturday’s Betfred Challenge Cup Quarter-Final tie with Hull KR…
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