Sneyd aims to be one to fill Chase’s boots

NEW Castleford Tigers signing Marc Sneyd reckons competition for places at Wheldon Road next year will see him deliver his best form yet.

As has long been mooted, the goal-kicking half-back joins on a season-long loan from Salford City Reds for 2014.

Sneyd, 22, has been an impressive performer for Super League’s bottom club but has been allowed to leave by coach Brian Noble following the high-profile captures of Castleford’s England star Rangi Chase and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats’ stellar Australian scrum-half Tim Smith.

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He is the third half-back acquisition by Castleford this week after they also announced the capture of ex-Hull FC No7 Brett Seymour on a 12-month deal and the return of London Broncos’ Luke Dorn on a two-year contract.

Crucially, Castleford coach Daryl Powell now has Sneyd, Seymour, Dorn – who can also play full-back – and current half-back Jamie Ellis competing for slots to try and fill the sizeable void left by 2011 Man of Steel Chase.

“I’m really looking forward to joining Castleford Tigers next season,” said Sneyd.

“It’s a big one for the club next year and I’m aiming to make a significant contribution to our goal of reaching the top eight and then hopefully have a good run in the play-offs.

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“There’s going to be a real big competition for places next season, especially in the halves.

“I’m looking forward to that challenge though because competition always seems to bring out the best in players.

“Hopefully, I can force my way into Daryl’s plans during pre-season by working very hard and by showing him and my team-mates that I bring something extra to the squad.”

Oldham-born Sneyd has played in 45 Super League matches for Salford since making his debut in 2010 – 30 this year alone – scoring four tries and 61 goals, including 55 this season.

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It is imperative Castleford, who finished 12th this term and relied too heavily on Chase’s brilliance, avoid being dragged into the bottom two as relegation returns.

Powell said: “I am really pleased to have signed Marc Sneyd for next season. He is a quality player with the added benefit of an outstanding left foot kicking game.

“He will add to the depth and quality of our option within the squad moving into next season.”

Powell is also interested in signing Liam Hood, the young hooker who has been released by Leeds Rhinos and who has spent much of this season on dual-registration at Hunslet Hawks in the Championship.