Matty Unsworth on board for 2027 season

Rochdale Hornets have secured another key retention ahead of the 2027 season, with second-rower Matty Unsworth committing his immediate future to the club.

Unsworth endured an injury-hit debut season in Rochdale colours. A broken ankle sustained in Round 1 against Swinton Lions had been expected to keep him out for the remainder of the campaign, but Unsworth defied the odds to make his return to action at the start of August. 

He went on to make a total of seven league appearances for the club, scoring in games against Dewsbury and Hunslet towards the end of the campaign. 

Unsworth has proven himself to be a vital member of our squad, especially during the final weeks of the season, and we look forward to welcoming him back next season. 

"I'm buzzing to have signed for another year, and couldn’t think of a better club to play for," he said. 

"It was a no-brainer to re-sign. Last season’s injury set me back around six months, but I managed to get the back end of the year in and felt good. 

"I’m looking forward to a big year with the Hornets and getting a full season under my belt, as I feel I can be a real asset to the team as we look to be successful."

Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: "This is probably the most pleasing re-signing, as back in January this year when Matty suffered such a horrendous injury at Swinton, we feared the worst.

“It's a testament to his mindset, attitude, professionalism and the way he lives his life that he's been able to not only recover, but come back bigger and stronger than before. 

“It was no secret that our right edge defence was struggling at one point this year, but Matty's return coincided with an upturn in fortunes. Covering both the right edge centre and back row positions, he was fantastic. 

“I’m delighted that Matty is staying on board as he's a popular member of the group, and a good player and bloke too."