BATLEY BULLDOGS coach James Ford believes he can bring even more out of Robbie Butterworth.
The fullback who impressed over 26 appearances this season, notching 18 tries, has signed a contract extension for 2027, which will make it four seasons at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium since signing from Wakefield.
Brighouse Rangers junior product Butterworth, who came through the Trinity development system to make one first-team outing in Super League in 2023, follows halfback Ben Reynolds in remaining a Bulldog.
The 24-year-old who had loan spells at Oldham, London Skolars and Swinton while with Wakefield has already established himself as one of the most admired fullbacks in the second tier.
And Ford said of the man who has topped 70 Batley appearances: “I’m pleased with the progress Robbie made this year (the coach’s first at the club, in which his side finished tenth to be the last team in the play-offs).
“He was strong under kick-pressure, often turned momentum with his kick-returns and came up with plenty of tries and assists at key moments.
“I’m excited about seeing him add more to his game, which if he works hard, he will do.”
Butterworth said: “It’s great to be back for another year. I can’t wait to meet the new lads and rip into pre-season.”
Ford has added Bradford backrower Lewis Hagan, Keighley forward Leo Aliyu, Goole second rower Nick Staveley, Leeds hooker Elliott Fox and former Hull FC, Newcastle and Dewsbury centre Marcus Walker, who has been playing for Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the Brisbane Rugby League competition, as he continues to hone a squad who picked up eleven wins from 24 league games this year.
Experienced second rower Dale Manning and centre Felix Ellis have also signed contract extensions.
