New Hull Kingston Rovers recruit Ken Sio cannot wait to experience the Hull derby for the first time, should he be selected for the pre-season friendly between the two clubs next month.
Sio, who has arrived from NRL side Parramatta Eels, says he has been told plenty about the atmosphere in the inter-city derby and, while he has never actually seen one before, he is excited to play in a derby atmosphere – as well as in front of the KR fans in general.
“I’ve heard lots of good things about the fans,” Sio told League Express.
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“They seem to be a very loud bunch from what I’ve been told. Lots of the players and staff have mentioned how passionate the fans are, and I can’t wait to get playing in front of them. The derby is something that has been mentioned a lot around the club too, and that’s something I’m really excited about experiencing.
“The one thing I found out about before anything else was the Hull derby; that was what people said to me when I mentioned Hull KR.
“I’ve never actually seen a derby game between the two teams, so I’m not sure what I’m walking into – I’m sure it won’t be a friendly though, despite the billing.
“But it will be great to experience, and hopefully I can do the Hull KR fans proud during the derby matches in particular.”
Sio, 23, admits to being surprised to be playing in Super League so early in his career – but insists the opportunity to come to Hull KR was too good to resist.
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“I’m really enjoying myself,” he said. “I’m just trying to adapt to the cold weather, but apart from that it’s a beautiful city to be playing and living in.
“I wouldn’t say it’s always been an ambition to play in Super League so early, but now I’m here I will be making it my goal to produce my best footy for Hull KR.
“It’s something I perhaps thought about doing later in my career, and I didn’t expect to be here so soon. However, when the opportunity came up we all decided it was too good to turn down.”
