Wakefield forward joins Championship side

Halifax Panthers have announced the signing of Adam Tangata who joins the club until at least the end of 2022.

The Panthers have beaten a number of Championship rivals to secure his signature and it gives Simon Grix a major boost to an already formidable looking squad and pack with Tangata renown for his aggressive tackling and hit ups making him a crowd favourite amongst the Shay faithful who will be delighted to see “Adzy” return.

The 30 year-old Cook Island international prop rejoins Fax after previously enjoying two successful spells with the club after originally joining back in 2015 where hehelped the club to three, top four finishes and a place in the Super 8s as well as helping the club reach the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup back in 2019.

Tangata has also represented Widnes Vikings where he made an impressive start in 2019 before financial troubles hit the club resulting in Adam moving on and has recently made 12 appearances for Super League side Wakefield Trinity.

Panthers head coach Simon Grix was delighted to secure the services of the explosive prop.

“This has had the potential to happen since he left! Halifax is home to Adam and, in his 5 or 6 years in the UK, this is the place he has played his best and been truly happy.

“He left on both occasions for something we couldn’t offer and I feel he is definitely coming back an improved player from those experiences.

“It is important to note that out of the half-dozen clubs that were in for Adam we sat firmly at the bottom in terms of financial benefit, therefore his heart has certainly ruled his head in one sense, with strong desire to wear our colours  again. I am excited to see him renew some old combinations but also create some new with the current crop.”

Football Director Ian Croad had this to say on the return of Tangata: “We never really wanted Adam to leave, however he fulfilled most players ambition of playing at a higher level.

“He returns back after a full-time pre-season and has a burning desire to help improve what we are about. He will add some size and skill to our middle unit.”

Tangata couldn’t hold back his excitement on rejoining the club.

“I’m buzzing to be back at the club and can’t wait to get ripped in with the boys, it’s an exciting time on and off the field at the Panthers and I am looking forward to being a part of it.”