Arthur Mourgue has made a strong first impression on his new Hull KR teammates as he prepares to make his debut. That’s according to Mikey Lewis, who will be working closely with the full-back as he strives to build up an understanding that can power Rovers on to silverware this season.
Mourgue sat out of last week’s Super League clash with Leigh Leopards, but Willie Peters has included him in this weekend’s squad to face Huddersfield Giants. As such, the expectation is that the Frenchman will pick up at least some minutes for the Robins at the John Smith’s Stadium, be that off the bench or from the start.
Of course, the head coach will be reluctant to drop Jack Broadbent, who has fared well in the number one role lately, and that means Mourgue may have to be patient following his switch from Catalans Dragons. Lewis certainly likes what he sees from the 25-year-old, though, and he’s looking forward to seeing what he can do in red and white.
“He’s looked really sharp and he’s fitted in with the boys really well,” Lewis said. “He’s fast, elusive and he’s fitted in really well. I can’t wait to see him play and mix in with a new group.
“Hopefully we can build that connection with ease other, with Tyrone and Jez and Micky in the middle. We’ll see how it goes, we’ve got to keep training together, keep working hard on our combinations and see where it takes us in the game but he’s great to have in the team.”
Mourgue is a goalkicker and with Rhyse Martin on the sidelines for a lengthy period, the Robins are short of options from the tee. Lewis has taken on that responsibility in recent weeks and has kicked with accuracy, but will he step aside for Mourgue to take on the task?
“You’ll have to wait and see on Sunday,” he laughed. “I’m sure Willie will try and get a little competition going but whoever kicks will do the best they can for this team.”
On goal kicking, the Hull KR man added: “Sometimes it happens in rugby league and I’ve taken it with both hands. I’ve been trying not to think about it too much because I have so much I need to focus on, but it’s been going alright I think. It’s one of those things where you just have to do it sometimes. It’s part of the job and I was always prepared to take over.
“I’m just pleased when it goes over to be fair. Why not celebrate those little wins because that’s a little win for me I reckon. If it was easy everyone would do it. It just brings the energy and I like to play with a smile on my face.”
Our travelling squad to take on Huddersfield 💪#UpTheRobins🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/7FhkGloEvF
— Hull KR (@hullkrofficial) March 28, 2025
