Wakefield Trinity v Leeds Rhinos: Explosive David Fifita full of praise for new Wildcats' team-mates

New Wakefield Trinity Wildcats' signing, David Fifita. Picture: Bruce Rollinson.

The giant Australian prop debuts against struggling Super League champions Leeds Rhinos having arrived from Cronulla Sharks on a deal until the end of the season.

Fifita is an explosive front-row who should bring extra power to Wakefield’s cause as they seek the win that will all but confirm their place in Super League’s top-eight.

He has played just two NRL games this season, though, against St George Illawarra and North Queensland Cowboys while his last competitive match was the Test between Tonga and Samoa on May 7.

However, Fifita said: “It’s been five weeks so it’s been tough but I’ll get some games under my belt. I’m expecting to bring everything Friday, give everything I’ve got.

“It’s really anyone’s game. Leeds got a win against Salford last week and looking at us a couple of weeks ago we lost to Salford so it’s just on how each team turns up. The boys look great after today’s session, though, and we’re ready to take it to them.

“They have done the job of getting us up in the eight and you have got to give them credit for that. I don’t want to let the boys down now.”

He is the twin brother of Kangaroos prop Andrew Fifita, another sibling – Latu – plays for Workington Town and he already knows some of the Trinity squad having played alongside Wildcats players Tinirau Arona and Anthony Tupou with Cronulla.

“Tirona’s been great – I grew up playing junior leagues with T,” said the 26-year-old. “Anthony Tupou been great, too. I’ve stayed at his house while I try and get mine sorted. They’ve been brilliant for me and my family. I arrived last week so it was good to get here and settle in. The family got in Wednesday so it’s great to get them here as well. I always wanted to try Super League, travel and try another comp’ but I didn’t think it’d come this early.”

After two losses, Wakefield returned to winning ways with a 10-2 win at Huddersfield on Sunday and now hope to complete a memorable double over Leeds.

They are further augmented by the return of former England hooker Scott Moore after a six-game ban.