Widnes Vikings signs PNG Rugby League International Stanton Albert
Highly-rated Papua New Guinea international, Albert, joins the Vikings from PNG Hunters. The 23-year-old is the brother of fellow Vikings signing and international, Wellington Albert. He joins the club on a two-year deal, pending visa approval.
Weighing in at almost 17 stone, Stanton brings power and strength to the Vikings forward-line. Papua New Guinean media have praised the forward for his impressive appearances for the Kumuls, describing him as ‘bulldozing’ through opposition defences in international test appearances.
The explosive prop made three appearances at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, including featuring in the defeats of Wales and Ireland. He has represented Penrith Panthers in the Queensland Cup, joining the club in 2015, and was a pivotal member of the PNG Hunters team that won the 2017 Intrust Super Cup Premiership. With 18 tackle breaks, 805 post-contact meters and ten offloads in his 22 appearances for the PNG Hunters last season, he proved to be an intimidating force for the Premiership winning side.
Denis Betts, Head Coach of Widnes Vikings, says: “Stanton is a player that we have had real interest in, even before my time at the World Cup. He came highly recommended to us by some of our key contacts in Australia, and I was very impressed in what I saw in his international appearances for PNG at the tournament.
"Stanton joins the Vikings with a great pedigree and a desire to build his career. He will create real competition for places, because he is desperate to play and wants to make the most out of this opportunity.
"His move also makes a lot of sense, given the tragic news of Kato’s passing. We believe that Wellington and Stanton will get the best out of each other, and settle well in the local community together. Of course, Widnes Vikings have a famous heritage of brothers and relatives representing the Club, and we are excited that the pair have the opportunity to forge their own chapter in that history.
"I am sure that Stronghold Members and supporters will relish seeing him in action this season.”
Stanton is proudly sponsored by VIQI.
Widnes Vikings have set up a crowd funder to support the loved ones of Kato Ottio, teammate of Stanton and Wellington. Please click here to donate to this important cause.
With the backing of supporters signing up for Stronghold Membership, Widnes Vikings are striving to continue to recruit. If you haven’t signed up for 2018 yet, you are encouraged to do so soon, to make your contribution to the Vikings transfer budget.
Membership has been held at the 2017 early-bird prices. Not only will you receive the best value Membership ever and a host of exclusive Member benefits, you will also be making a real investment into the growth of the Vikings in 2018.
To sign up, visit the Vikings Superstore, Tesco Extra, or call 0151 495 2250 (option 2).
Click here for full information on 2018 Viking Stronghold Membership packages, as well as the full suite of Member benefits.
Vikings Superstore Opening Hours:
Monday: 9am - 5pm
Tuesday: 11am - 7pm
Wednesday: 11am - 7pm
Thursday: 11am - 7pm
Friday: 11am - 7pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm
Source: http://widnesvikings.co.uk
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