It’s one in, and one out on loan deals for Whitehaven this week.
Following the departure of Jake Bradley to neighbours Workington Town for a month, Haven have announced the arrival of hooker Connor Saunders from Cumbrian neighbours Barrow Raiders on a short-term deal
An Ulverston native Saunders made his Raiders debut in a man of the match performance against Leigh Centurions on dual registration from Ulverston last season and went on to make four appearances.
Ahead of the 2023 season the hooker signed his first professional deal and has made two appearances for the Raiders this year.
Saunders will replace Marcus O’Brien who left the field in last week’s clash at Barrow with a knee injury and is currently undergoing scans to assess the damage sustained.
Head coach Jonty Gorley ssaid: “We have brought Connor in on a month’s loan to cover Marcus O’Brien’s injury. Marcus sustained a knee injury at Barrow and is having an MRI scan to assess the damage, and hopefully won’t be out too long.
“Because of this injury and also with Callum Phillips still on rehab with his long-term injury, it leaves us with one hooker, James Newton. So I needed cover and Connor was available.
“I’ve known him since he was in the Cumbria Storm programme some years ago and he’s a great lad and he’ll mix well with our players.
“Every time Connor has played for Barrow he has done well, getting the man of the match on his debut. He’s good around the ruck and his service is good too.”
Saunders will be in contention for a place in the Haven squad for Sunday’s home game with Newcastle Thunder.
