Jordan Dezaria is making the most of his opportunity in Hull KR’s first-team squad, with head coach Willie Peters praising the forward’s continued development – particularly in the Robins’ most valued area.
The 29-year-old has become an increasingly familiar face in the reigning champions’ matchday squad, and Peters believes the French international has earned his chance.
The prop has now made 10 appearances from the interchange bench in his debut season at Sewell Group Craven Park, including six consecutive matches. He also scored his first Hull KR try in the 34-20 derby victory over Hull FC in Round 20.
“We want to try to give everyone an opportunity, and Jordan has been getting his opportunity,” Peters explained.
“It’s important that we play the guys that are in the squad, and he’s getting that.
“Our defence is our number one, and Jordan is improving in that area, and he certainly gives us a lot on the ball, that’s for sure.”
Competition for places is set to intensify in the closing stages of the regular season, with Tevita Pangai Junior due to serve the final game of his six-match suspension this week.
Dean Hadley also shrugged off a hamstring scare to impress against Bradford Bulls, while Mikey Lewis will be available again from suspension for the midweek clash with Warrington Wolves later this month.
“Hopefully we’re in a position to get our best 17 [soon],” added Peters.
“We’ve got some injuries at the moment to our spine, so in terms of our attack, your cohesion can be off.
“But what we can’t do is let that affect our defence. If it’s not flowing like it should, it should never affect your defence. At times, it affected our defence against Bradford, and 16 points is not what we want.”