Deane's towering presence could give Tigers the crucial edge

3:55pm Thursday 7th August 2008

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THINKING big could see Sedgley Tigers battle their way up the National Division One table.

The Whitefield club possess possibly the tallest player in the division in the imposing shape of lock, Dean Williams.

The 19-year-old joined the club last season and played a big part in the second team’s capture of the Miller Homes League Premier Division title.

“At 7ft, I reckon he’s the tallest player in the division and his height is an advantage we may look to use in the lineouts, not just on our throw but also when the opposition have the ball,” said director of rugby, Tim Fourie.

“At 19 stone he’s certainly a big unit but we’ll have to see how he copes with the physicality. We need to improve his technique and body positioning but he works hard in training and he’s good to coach. Leeds Carnegie have offered him specialist second row training on Monday nights and the opportunity to get some game time in their academy team.”

“Deano” will be battling with Fourie himself, Glen Townson and new signing Sam Woods for a starting berth in the engine room, after Ed Norris moved to Lancashire rivals Manchester, where he has joined two other former Tigers — Richard Oxley and Ben Lloyd.

Meanwhile, in the Tigers’ back row the three places up for grabs are being hotly contested by Adam Newton, Juan Crous and news signings Olly Cook and Andy Boyde, on a season-long loan from Leeds.