Kurt Haggerty has spoken on just how much of an influence St Helens boss Paul Rowley has had on his career, as the two face off as coaches for the very first time.
Haggerty has worked under Rowley in both a playing and coaching capacity, after featuring under the boss at Leigh Centurions, before joining him as assistant coach at both Toronto Wolfpack and Salford Red Devils.
Before Salford’s financial demise, which ended up seeing them liquidated and reborn, the now Bradford Bulls boss was set to take over from Rowley as head coach of the club, with the latter moving up to act as director of rugby.
As it happened, neither of those came to light, and both found head coach roles elsewhere in the top flight.
After a partnership that has been ongoing for over a decade, the pair will face off as head coaches for the first time, in a moment both parties are looking forward to.
Haggerty’s Bulls travel to the BrewDog Stadium on Saturday evening, as Bradford look to continue their successful start to their Super League return.
Speaking to the press earlier this week to preview the game, the 37-year-old was asked just how much Rowley has influenced his rugby league career.
“A lot,” he explained. “I played under Paul a long time ago, whose philosophies have never really changed. He’s very strong in his beliefs, and I was lucky enough to work alongside him for such a long time, in a lot of different capacities.
“In regards to a working relationship, there’s no better people to learn off, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time working with him. He’s doing a really good job at St Helens, so I was privileged to work with Paul.”
Giving his verdict on a Rowley-led Saints, he said: “It certainly looks different at St Helens. You can see what Paul’s trying to achieve. They’re moving the ball more, they’re more direct, and they’re certainly playing more shape on shape. So, there are threats all over the field.”
The pair will probably sharing a moment post-match, but Haggerty knows be he and his side will have to be in full focus if they are to topple the former Super League champions.
“It’s another game in the calendar. I’m going up against my old mates, there’s not a lot in it. We’re both playing rugby, we’re both aiming to win the game.”
