WATERLOO have been boosted by the news former club captain Freeman Payne has decided to return to the Blundellsands fold after a spell ‘over the water’ with Birkenhead Park as the club continue to strengthen their squad for the coming season. Also lining up next year will be Northwich wing/centre Dan King.
“The return of Freeman is a massive bonus for us as he will bring all his experience to our backline,” commented director of rugby Jan Van Deventer. “He was a firm favourite at the club whilst he was with us and I am sure that will soon be rekindled when he pulls on the club shirt once again. As for Dan, he has a great pedigree and he will certainly add to our strengthen in depth, an area where we perhaps lacking last term.”
Signings so far indicate the seriousness of Waterloo’s intent and with talent now outside the starting line up they can be expected to make a challenge in at least the top half of National Three North when the season kicks off at home to Lymm on Saturday, September 1.
Relegated Kendal are visited the following week with the opening Mersey derby at home to Birkenhead Park the week after.
Other newcomers to National Three North are Harrogate and Kendal, down from National Two North, and promoted side Percy Park from North One East. Sandbach who won the North One West title have replaced Manchester in National Three Midlands.
Waterloo will take on Sale FC in a warm up game on August 18.
The Sale outfit, who have just been promoted from South Lancashire/Cheshire One to North One West, are widely expected to move straight through into National Three North in their first season at this level.
