Barrow Raiders have added two exciting ex-Super League forwards to their squad for 2024.
Former Salford Red Devil James Greenwood and ex-Wigan Warrior Ramon Silva have both agreed one-year deals.
Greenwood’s four-season stint with the Red Devils came to an end following the conclusion of the 2023 season. In total, he scored six tries in 25 appearances.
During that time, the 32-year-old helped the club reach the Betfred Challenge Cup final in 2020, scoring a try in their 17-16 defeat to Leeds Rhinos at Wembley.
He has featured once before for the Raiders, starting against York RLFC Knights back in February after joining on a short-term loan deal.
Before his time at Salford, Greenwood played for Hull KR and made a total of 93 appearances for the Robins over five seasons.
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “After lots of hard work behind the scenes to ensure we get the right fit for the club when signing players, we are pleased to announce that James has agreed to join us for the coming season.
“James is comfortable as a second-rower or middle. After speaking with him, he feels he could still be playing at Super League level.
“He is looking forward to proving this playing for Barrow, and we look forward to seeing him in Raiders colours.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “James is a proven competitor at Super League level and will add a new dimension to our forward pack ahead of next season.
“From the conversations held between James and the club, it’s clear to see the hunger he has for the game.
“We hope to see James find his best form at the Raiders and help us enjoy a successful season in 2024.”
Silva was born in Sau Paulo, Brazil, and moved to the UK with his parents at the age of three.
As a 15-year-old, his rugby league journey began with Elmbridge Eagles. After just four games, he was snapped up by London Broncos’ academy and would go on to spend three years in their system – playing alongside fellow Raiders recruit and good friend Max Clarke during that time.
The 22-year-old went on to secure a move to Betfred Super League side Wigan in November 2021.
During his time with the Warriors, Silva also gained experience on loan at several clubs, including last season at former club London and French side Toulouse Olympique.
Capable of playing as a prop forward or second-rower, the Raiders have moved to secure the signature of the young forward ahead of the upcoming Betfred Championship season.
On joining the club, Silva said: “It’s a great opportunity for me. The fact that they want me there and I can get the game time that I need ticks all the boxes for everyone.
“I’m excited to be part of a vibrant new team, and hopefully we can do something great. I can’t wait to get stuck in with my new team-mates, and I’m equally excited to meet the Barrow Raiders supporters.
“The experiences I’ve had over the last couple of seasons have really helped me grow as a player, and I feel like I’ve learnt a lot.
“That game time towards the back end of last season will help me hit the ground running and make an immediate impact at the Raiders.
“Fans can expect a lot of effort-based rugby from me. I like to work hard on the field and get the team on the front foot, and with ball in-hand, I think I can make a difference and produce some good carries.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Crarey said: “It has taken a lot of patience and due diligence on the club’s part to finally secure the services of Ramon Silva.
“Ramon is an outstanding prospect in the middle of the field and will give the squad a massive boost in the size and strength department. His explosive running power and massive defensive efforts will make him a big hit with our
“Once again, the club was patient in speaking to all the right people to make sure this was the right move for us as a club and Ramon as a player. Everyone is delighted to get this signing over the line, and we look forward to seeing Ramon in action.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “The capture of Ramon is one that I’m sure will really excite supporters of this club.
“It speak volumes that Wigan saw the potential of Ramon and offered him a two-year deal. He might not have broken into their first team, but he is a shrewd addition to any forward pack at this level and everyone at the Warriors spoke very highly of him.”
