Roughyeds in Robinson deal

AFTER failing to agree terms with one Robinson, another has walked through the Oldham door.

Craig, older brother of Adam, has joined the Roughyeds on a 12-month deal.

The second-rower was released by National League Two rivals Rochdale Hornets at the end of last season.

Oldham chief executive Chris Hamilton said: “Craig is a player we’ve always admired for his work ethic and commitment.

“He really applies himself and his team-mates appreciate his unselfishness during games. He has a good attitude and is very professional at whatever he does.

“When we realised he was available a couple of weeks ago, we got in contact.

“He was keen to join us, which is always a big factor when you’re looking to bring a player in.”

A real bundle of energy, he was freed from home-town club Wakefield in 2005. He immediately made the switch to Spotland, where he has spent three successful years.

He still lives in the West Yorkshire town, in the same house as his brother.

The Service Area co-ordinator for Wakefield, Robinson lives and breathes rugby league and Roughyeds fans will know him by the distinctive black scrum cap he wears.

He was in the Rochdale side which lost to Oldham in last month’s NL2 play-off semi-final.

Much-admired by fans and players alike for his never-say-die approach, it was a tough call from Hornets coach Darren Shaw to let Robinson go.

But Shaw is in the process of reshaping the Rochdale side and felt he needed to sign some bigger forwards as the 23-year-old is often forced to play above his weight and stature.

Robinson made 11 starts last season and was replacement on 14 occasions, scoring two tries.