Warrington want more from Roy Asotasi

Warrington head coach Tony Smith is hoping to see more from Roy Asotasi next season, although he admits that 2014 has been tough for the Kiwi prop.

Asotasi joined the Wolves on a two-year contract at the start of the season after a 13-year career in the NRL with Canterbury and South Sydney. The front-rower won an NRL Grand Final with the Bulldogs in 2004, as well as making 24 appearances for New Zealand.

But Asotasi found it hard going in Super League in his debut season.
The 32-year old was only ranked 12th at Warrington in total carries, 12th in metres and sixth in tackles made.

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Smith told League Express that Asotasi was starting to find his feet at the Halliwell Jones Stadium towards the end of the season.

“He finished the year strong,” said Smith.

“The last probably three or four games, we saw some of what he’s capable of. But it was tough for him and it was a tough season for him. The adjustments to a new team and a new competition; it’s often that way for overseas players.

“If you go back to Trent Barrett and his first year here, for those who remember when he came over here. Everybody wanted to send him on his way home at the end of his first season.

“But in his second season I think he was vying for Man of Steel, and everybody was saying what a super player he is. It’s reassuring that some of the overseas players struggle in their first year.”

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Competition in the Warrington front row will be strong in 2015, with new recruit Ashton Sims, England prop Chris Hill, Paul Wood, Anthony England, Asotasi and youngsters George Riley and Tom Walker all battling it out.

Smith believes Asotasi will be better next year with a season of Super League under his belt.

“We’re hoping that Roy can pick up where he finished,” he said.

“He’s got a better idea of how the game’s played in this country and how the game’s played in our club. It’s been a big adjustment.”

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