Kilshaw releases Tahraoui and Hand
TWO players have departed Rochdale Hornets after Samir Tahraoui and Jordan Hand left the club with immediate effect.
Tahraoui joined Hornets in the 2016 off season, and was a key part in helping the club gain promotion to the Kingstone Press Championship.
He has found opportunities limited in recent months, and has now left Hornets to join York City Knights.
Hand arrived at Hornets earlier this season from neighbours Swinton Lions, but a change in his work circumstances meant he has been unable to be fully committed to rugby league.
Hornets head coach Alan Kilshaw admits it’s a shame to see the players go, but feels it is the right decision.
“It’s disappointing to see players leave but we would like to wish Samir well at York,” he said.
“He was a big part of our success last season however hasn’t been able to achieve that form this season.
“Hopefully playing week in week out can help him get his confidence back.
“I sat down with him and had an open and frank conversation about what was going on and we both felt perhaps it was for the best if he was to move on.
“With Jordan it’s a bit different - his work life has changed a bit and he is struggling to commit to semi-professional rugby league.
“If we had known these changes were happening before he joined us, maybe we wouldn’t have signed him so that’s a little bit frustrating but unfortunately that’s the way it goes sometimes.
“I would like to thank both players for their efforts and wish them well for whatever comes next in their careers.”
While Tahraoui and Hand have left Hornets, Kilshaw still has a good sized squad to pick from, along with dual registration options with Super League side Warrington Wolves.