When ‘The Rig’ is headed straight for you, it’s a good idea to get out of the way.
Much like an articulated truck, Glenn Hall is a scary sight when travelling at full speed and Super League defenders would be well advised to consider their own safety before tackling him head on.
The Bulls’ 16-stone juggernaut earned his ‘Rig’ moniker during his time at Manly Sea Eagles, where his size and raw power were a key feature of the 2008 premiership-winning side.
Hall will fulfil a similar role as enforcer with Bradford next year, although there has been some debate among fans whether he will play prop or second row at Odsal.
Much like predecessor Sam Burgess, the 28-year-old Aussie is happy to fill in at either spot, keeping Steve Menzies out of the team for much of 2008 before splitting time between the front and back row last season.
Wherever he plays, one thing is certain about his game – he likes to take the ball up, hard.
“I’m a second row that plays tight but if I’m needed in the front row I can do that, it doesn’t really bother me,” said Hall.
“My role as a second row is basically just banging it up-field, although I do try to play a bit more football than a typical second row too. I can’t wait to get going, I’m loving it here so far.”
Joining him on the trip from Manly to Bradford are scrum half Matt Orford and hooker Heath L’Estrange, both team-mates in the 2008 NRL Grand Final.
Their presence is a reassuring one for Hall, providing added confidence he will be able to adapt to the style in Super League.
He said: “I hope my game’s suited to Super League. With guys like Ox and Strangey coming over in two key positions, being able to run off guys like that and knowing the way they play can only help my game.
“Personally, my expectations are just to play good, consistent, hard football and obviously contribute to the side. I’m sure that’s everyone else’s goal as well and if everyone can get on that page, we’re going to go well.”
Hall was the first of the trio to commit to the Bulls, signing a three-year deal back in June. Close friend L’Estrange followed just a month later, while Orford agreed his move less than three weeks ago.
Despite being a colleague of Orford’s for three years, Hall was as shocked as the Bulls fans when the 2008 Dally M medal winner finalised his Odsal switch.
Hall said: “All the news over there was that he was going to sign a new deal with Manly. But then my wife’s sister rang me and told me they had announced on the radio that he was joining Bradford.
“I was really happy and surprised. He’s a great player and Super League should suit him.
“He’s very nippy, very strong and a quick runner of the ball. I think with quick play-the-ball over here, it should only help his and Heath’s game.”
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