MARTIN Halsall will make his full debut at Halifax tomorrow as the Greens aim for their sixth win in eight games.
The on-loan prop from Sale impressed with both his strength and technique when he came on as a replacement in Wharfedale's 31-20 win at home to Orrell last Saturday.
After seeing Halsall in competitive action for the first time, coach John Lawn said: "He did just what we thought he would. He was forceful in the scrum and when he got his hands on the ball he showed he could carry it well.
"Hopefully, he can do that week in week out, but on the evidence of Saturday, he is a dynamic, powerful lad who is also technically very good."
At just under 18 stone, the 21-year-old certainly adds bulk to a Wharfedale side who possess one of the lighter packs in the division.
If Halsall stays at the Avenue for the rest of the season - he could be recalled if Sale need him - he could bring a new dynamic to the Greens.
Their free-flowing open style of rugby has made them one of the more attractive sides to watch in National Two. The addition of Halsall, who was signed following the departure of Craig Ingram, now gives them extra steel up front.
He certainly has the right pedigree, having played for England under-21s and having trained alongside the likes of England powerhouse Andrew Sheridan at Sale.
His physical presence will be needed in tomorrow's Yorkshire derby against a Halifax side that Lawn rates despite their lowly third-from-bottom position in the table.
Halsall's elevation from the bench is one of two changes to the starting line-up.
An injury to winger James Hutchinson sees Chris Meehan come in at fly half and a reshuffle in the back line.
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