Hornets sign former Super League outside back Rawsthorne on loan

Rochdale Hornets is delighted to confirm the signing of Nick Rawsthorne from Halifax Panthers on an initial one month loan.

The outside back arrives at the Crown Oil Arena possessing Super League and Championship experience having previously represented: Hull FC, Hull KR, Toronto Wolfpack, York City Knights, Doncaster and most recently Halifax Panthers.    

The 27-year-old, who has an impressive try scoring try scoring record, scored a Super League brace for Hull FC at Catalans Dragons in 2017, as well as a last minute try for rivals KR against Leigh Centurions in the 2020 Challenge Cup. 

Rawsthorne, who was also a part of the Toronto Wolfpack side which earnt promotion from the Championship in 2018, scored 27 tries in 34 matches for the Canadian outfit. 

Speaking on signing for Rochdale Hornets, Rawsthorne said: “I’m looking forward to getting going. I need game time as a player and I’ve not had that since I re-signed for Halifax.

“I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in my career, and I’m going to give my all in a Rochdale Hornets shirt.”

Hornets head coach Gary Thornton has spoken highly of his latest addition from Panthers, along with Ben Forster who has had his loan extended for another month. 

Thornton has declared his delight of securing Rawsthorne's signature, he said: "Nick is an experienced outside back, and a proven try scorer at both Super League and Championship level.

"He will strengthen our outside back options at either centre or wing, and I'm delighted we were able to agree a loan deal with Halifax for his services."

Hornets chairman Andy Mazey has shared Thornton's delight, to which he added: "Players of such experience and proven quality are difficult to come by right now so we moved very quickly when the opportunity was presented.

"Nick brings to Rochdale a wealth of Super League and Championship experience, and he will undoubtably add plenty size, experience and quality to Gary's backline options. 

"I would like to thank Dave Grayson and Simon Grix over at Halifax, for allowing this deal to happen."

Rochdale Hornets are next in action on Sunday 7 May when North Wales Crusaders visit the Crown Oil Arena.  

Tickets are priced at: Adult £17, Student £8 and Junior £5, and can be purchased on our website here. 

Match tickets can also be bought - via cash and card - on matchday from the main reception, however, we would advise to book in advance online to avoid queues.