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Rugby League

Sharp tips success for Houghton

07/01/2008

Hull FC coach Peter Sharp has tipped young academy product Danny Houghton as an important player for his club during the 2008 Super League season.

The 19-year-old hooker was involved in Hull's 66-22 friendly victory over Dewsbury yesterday and was one of a number of players to impress Sharp.

New signing Todd Byrne scored a try, while Tom Briscoe grabbed a hat-trick, but it was Houghton, who has taken the step up from the academy to the full squad this pre-season, who caught the eye.

"He is a very good player, and it will take a very good player to keep him out of first grade," said Sharp.

Hull's options at hooker are strong, given the recent signing of Australian international Shaun Berrigan.

And Sharp had praise for Byrne, who the coach believes adds some real quality to the build-up and link-up play between the forwards and the backs.

"I felt Todd Byrne showed up well on his debut," he added.

"He showed what a great support player he is and what an excellent touch he has."

Hull's next pre-season fixture is against Huddersfield Giants at the KC Stadium on Sunday afternoon in the Paul King testimonial match.