IF there’s anyone who knows what Hull KR are all about this season then it’s Stuart Howarth.
The hooker is set to face Craig Sandercock’s men for the THIRD time already this year when Saints and the Robins lock in the Fourth Round of the Tetley’s Challenge Cup.
And so far it’s a narrow win for his parent club Salford and a narrow defeat for the loanee – but of course that will count for nothing on Saturday.
“Some of the lads rubbed their hands together when the draw came out,” he said, “as it gives us a chance to go back there and put things right. It will be a tough game but you have to beat the best to progress and in that sense Hull KR are no different to Warrington or Wigan.”
Howarth joined Saints little than 48 hours before the Good Friday derby at Wigan – and has now settled in to his new club.
“It was a whirlwind start and it took me a few days to find my feet and my role in the pecking order. But when you are thrown in at the deep end you have no choice other than to adapt and I’m enjoying it.
“The set up here is up there with the best in the league and that’s probably why we will be challenging for the trophies at the end of the season. Saints lads are brought up with it as are new signings and if you don’t win you get a slap on the wrist. At Salford we were there just to survive. Hopefully with Brian Noble in there that will change.
“I’m here until the end of the year and I am trying to do my best to get a deal with Saints. If that doesn’t happen then I will try my best for Salford.
“I have learnt a lot in the last four weeks or so and I’m sure my game will come on more.”
He continues: “I know I am covering James Roby at the moment and he is one of the best players in the world. He is a running hooker who makes breaks and I am more of a ball playing hooker. When he comes back I will be looking to play wherever Nathan likes me to. If I keep up my form – better than the last week – then I give myself a chance.”
