Featherstone Rovers forward joins on short-term loan

Rochdale Hornets have bolstered their forward pack ahead of next week's trip to Cornwall with the signing of Featherstone Rovers powerhouse Dean Roberts.

The 27-year-old prop forward arrives at the Crown Oil Arena on an initial two-week loan, having featured three times off the bench in league and cup for his parent club during the opening weeks of the season.

Roberts brings a wealth of experience to the Hornets, having been part of Doncaster's Betfred League 1 promotion-winning side last year.

He featured 14 times for the Dons in 2023 and scored three tries, before joining Featherstone after impressing on trial during pre-season. 

With head coach Gary Thornton having identified the need to strengthen his forward options ahead of a pivotal run of fixtures, the club have moved quickly to secure the services of the front-rower.

Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: "Dean is a physical middle who carries the ball very strongly and was part of the Doncaster squad which won promotion from League 1 last term, so he knows his way around the top of this division. 

"Dean is exactly what we were looking for, and our thanks go to Martin Vickers at Featherstone for allowing this loan deal to happen."