New Hawks halfback Singleton ready to soar

As a result of the loss, Coach Peter Illfield has named a new look side for the second and final colonial cup match on October 18, before the Rugby League World Cup Qualifiers later this year. The team has seven new faces, including Shain Singleton of the Rhode Island Rebellion, who will play at halfback for the second clash. After around 8 years playing Rugby League and three seasons captaining the Rebellion, Singleton gets his first shot at representing the USARL Hawks.

"I was extremely honored. This is a very prestigious accomplishment." Singleton stated.

Singleton joins the team after a strong season with the Rebellion, who qualified for the playoffs. He believes his form and playing style can help improve the team after the first game against Canada.

"I believe that I'll add some experience and leadership at halfback. I'm vocal and comfortable directing the boys around the paddock." Singleton said.

Despite the loss in game one, Singleton could see the positives for the Hawks. The team had the wind in their sails toward the end of the game, running in three tries in quick succession to Ryan Burroughs, Rich Henson and Kenny Britt.

"It appeared that the Wolverines found their rhythm early and were a little more prepared. Our boys were firing on all cylinders there at the end. Unfortunately it was a little too late," Singleton said.

Singleton will be partnering Rich Henson in the halves, who made his Hawks debut in game one. The two halves have come up against each other numerous times in the USARL competition but have never played on the same side.

"I respect him immensely as a competitor. I trust that he and I will work well together and make the right decisions with the ball in hand." Singleton added.

Rhode Island Rebellion owner Lawrence Almagno was quick to offer praise, “Shain a 5yr veteran of the RIR has been steadily improving on his defensive skills which are now on par with his explosive offensive skills. I am confident he will become a more permanent fixture on the Hawks USA squad.”

Singleton is one of only two members of the Hawks team who compete in the North-East division, the other being Abe Cohen (New York Knights). Despite not playing against many of his Hawks team mates in 2015, Singleton is definitely looking forward to playing with several former team mates against Canada.

"I'm excited to play alongside past axemen teammate Taylor alley. It'll also be nice running with all the boys I'm normally running against though." Singleton affirmed.

Another player Singleton is glad to see on the same side as him is Luke Barron, who has been added to the team since game one.

"Luke Barron just returned from a stint in Australia. So I know that he will be in top form. It'll be nice to have him back in the line-up for the national team." Singleton said.

USARL would like to wish Shain the best of luck for his debut match against Canada. A win of greater than 8 points is needed for the Hawks to win the Colonial Cup.

USARL Hawks vs Canada Wolverines

Sunday 3pm, 18th October
A.A.Garthwaite Stadium
100 E 11th Ave & Harry St. Conshohocken, PA 19428

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$5 General Admission
Tickets available at the GATE 2pm Game Day or BUY ONLINE: Usarl.eventbrite.com