Mustapha aims to turn up the power for Rovers
ON-LOAN YOUNG GUN READY TO MIX IT IN SUPER LEAGUE
Hull KR have been accused of being too passive in recent times but the club’s off-season recruitment suggests they will be a different beast next season. Fresh from propping up the Super League table in 2020, Rovers quickly set about adding steel to a pack that was too often dominated.
The Robins turned to Albert Vete, Muizz Mustapha and Korbin Sims, three hard-nosed forwards who relish physical confrontation.
Mustapha is the youngest of KR’S new recruits but there is no chance of him taking a backwards step next year against the best Super League has to offer.
“That’s always been my game and what I enjoy the most,” the 20-yearold replied when asked if he enjoyed the physical battle. “None of that fancy stuff, I leave that to the backs.
“I enjoy carrying the ball, all the contact and physicality side of it. Hopefully I get to show the fans that next season.”
An integral part of the England Academy team that claimed a memorable series win over the Australian Schoolboys, Mustapha was regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in English rugby league at the end of 2018.
Props generally have to be more patient but a hectic post-lockdown schedule gave clubs the opportunity to blood the next generation.
Leeds Rhinos fielded young sides in games against Catalans Dragons and Warrington Wolves as they prioritised the Challenge Cup, giving Mustapha a taste of Super League.
“You just had to keep training and hopefully get a chance during a busy schedule,” he said.
“It was a bit of an odd year for younger lads trying to get through into the first team.
“I played two games and it was totally different to what I was used to – the speed, the physicality, the level of skill. It just takes some time to get used to.
“I really enjoyed it, especially the Catalans game because they just ran straight which is what I enjoy more. Warrington play a different style and that was a bit trickier. I enjoyed both games. It was good to get a taste.”
After months of inactivity following the suspension of reserve grade, Mustapha suddenly found himself up against seasoned campaigners such as Sam Kasiano and Chris Hill.
“Those players have been at the top of the game for ages and have been there and done it,” added Mustapha.
“I saw it as a bit of a challenge and I really enjoyed it. I didn’t do too bad.
“I’ve got loads of things I want to improve on but I really enjoyed it. It was just fast and I was blowing. Apart from that, it was a good experience.”
When Tony Smith’s side report to Craven Park for pre-season training at the end of next month, Mustapha will be welcomed by some familiar faces.
Mustapha played in the age group above Anesu Mudoti at Hunslet Warriors and worked closely with Matt Parcell during their time together at Leeds.
The young front-rower was just coming through as fellow new signing Ryan Hall left Headingley for NRL giants Sydney Roosters.
“Ryan Hall is a great signing,” said Mustapha. “He was amazing when he was at Leeds and I still think he can do a good job now.
“I’m sure he’ll be looking forward to getting started and proving that he’s still as good as when he left.”
Mustapha is just as excited about lining up alongside Sims and Vete in the pack.
He added: “I’ve watched a bit of Korbin Sims and he’s a really good player – very physical and tough. He’s another great signing.
“Albert is a massive guy and I reckon he can throw his weight about.”
The recent transfer activity has raised optimism among the fans after a hugely frustrating season.
Mustapha watched on from afar and insisted Rovers are not that far away.
“That season has gone now and it’s a clean slate,” he said.
“Pre-season is around the corner and it’s about using this year as fuel for next season, to show we’re there to compete rather than being at the bottom of the table.
“We need to show we can mix it with the big boys and big teams, which you can see from the signings.
“I watched the game against Wigan and KR absolutely dominated them. There were moments in the season where Hull KR have shown that they could compete with the big teams.
“It’s just about doing it for longer. KR have got great players and I think we can do it. We just need to be more consistent with performances next year.
“Injuries obviously took their toll. It takes a while to build connections and that’s difficult if you keep rotating. Other teams haven’t really had those major injuries. Everything goes off the core – the hooker, halfbacks and full-back – and without them you’re always going to struggle.”
Rovers will be hoping to see more of the likes of Adam Quinlan and Jez Litten in 2021, with Mustapha himself hoping to play a big part in KR’S season.
“I just want to play,” said Mustapha. “I know I’ve got to earn my place and the coach’s trust to play. I’m looking forward to hopefully getting more opportunities to play and cementing a spot in the team.”