CDRL: Northern Pride half, prop to line-up for the Leprechauns

Innisfail has received a big boost ahead of this Saturday’s Cairns and District Rugby League clash against Edmonton Storm at Petersen Park.

Innisfail has received a big boost ahead of this Saturday’s Cairns and District Rugby League clash against Edmonton Storm at Petersen Park.

The Leprechauns will welcome Northern Pride halfback Matt Egan into their ranks for their season opener, with the former Burleigh Bears playmaker allocated to the 2019 runners-up for the new season.

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Innisfail coach Leon Hallie said while Egan was largely an unknown to him — the 23-year-old moved to Far North Queensland at the end of 2019 and has had limited opportunities to play rugby league until this season — he was looking forward to seeing what he could bring to the team.

“If you’re playing at that level, you’re expected to adapt to club footy pretty quickly, so I’m expecting him to slot in pretty easy,” Hallie said.

Innisfail Leprechauns winger Jackson Laza evades the defence during the Leps' 24-18 win against Ivanhoes at Callendar Park, Innisfail on Saturday, May 25, 2019. PIC: CHRIS HOLMES

“We already got a bit of depth in the halves, so he makes it even more of a headache, but it’s good to have players of that talent so we’ll find room for him.

Egan will likely don the No.7 jersey in place of Yarrabah recruit Andrew Garrett.

Hallie said he would find another role for the former Seahawks speedster, who earned his spot in the starting 17 with a strong pre-season. He said he could play in the halves or at fullback.

“We’re not sure yet, probably a bit of both,” he said.

“Andrew’s pretty versatile.”

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Pride forward Lata Fakalelu will also line up for Innisfail, with the hulking prop having a historical connection to the club.

“Hopefully we don’t see him too much because he’s worked hard to get to where he is now with all the weight he’s lost,” Hallie said.

“He’s looking really sharp.

“It would be nice to have him every now and then but it would be good to see him play a fair bit of (Queensland) Cup.”

Hallie said he was expecting a tough competition after 2020’s COVID-affected season.

“Every club is looking reasonably strong from what I’ve seen,” he said.

“I reckon it’s going to be a pretty even competition all year. Usually, last can beat first on their day, so it’s just a matter of who is consistent, pretty much.”

Originally published as CDRL: Northern Pride half, prop to line-up for the Leprechauns