York Knights boss Mark Applegarth has confirmed that the club have extended Leeds Rhinos forward Ben littlewood’s loan deal for another week.
Littlewood was a welcome reinforcement in round eight, as he joined a depleted York head of their game with Leigh Leopards.
The towering back rower, who can also play in the front row, featured in Leeds’ Las Vegas victory over Hull KR, but with other members of the squad being so healthy and on-form, game time for the 21-year-old is hard to come by.
Having spells at Hunslet RLFC this season already, he is now getting a chance to make his mark in Super League after only making six appearances in the top flight prior to his move to North Yorkshire.
York have been forced to use a number of loans this season, with the majority of those coming from Newcastle Thunder in the Championship.
The partnership between the two is proving fruitful at the minute, with both clubs having the opportunity to bring in reinforcements as and when they need.
Hull FC hooker Denive Balmforth is the club’s only current loanee not from Newcastle, but Littlewood will be the second after extending for this week’s game against Toulouse Olympique.
“I believe Ben’s extended for this week,” Applegarth told the press earlier today [Monday]. “I think all the paperwork’s all sorted, but really glad we’ve got Ben on board.
“I thought he had a solid debut. Obviously a couple of touches that he won’t be happy with, but I know that he’ll be a lot better for it.
“One thing I love about Ben is he’s got some great attributes in his defensive game and his offensive game, and yeah, I’m really glad that I’m working with him.”
York Knights boss offers verdict on forward’s disciplinary charge
York were one of six clubs to have players charged by the Match Review Panel this week.
Former Sydney Roosters prop Xavier Va’a was dealt a Grade A charge for a late hit on a Leigh player in the defeat, an incident which was deemed sin-bin worthy at the time.
It is the first disciplinary points of the season for Va’a, who now has three points on his record, some thing Applegarth believes is justified.
“I think it’s a fair call, three points and a fine. I think [there’s] a bit of common sense there too. I don’t think there’s any malice in it.
“It’s just a lazy hit. When you don’t go wrap your arms around, there’s going to be a consequence.
“I thought 10 minutes on the day was the right call, and I think the match review panel’s got it [right], no complaints from us.”
