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Goulding closes in

Mike Floyd
29/10/2004

HORNETS coach Bobbie Goulding is close to finalising his squad for next season writes Mike Floyd.

Dynamic second-row forward David Newton put pen to a 12-month contract on Wednesday. Powerful front-rower Gareth Price has agreed terms and was set to sign a new deal as the Observer went to press.

Newton joined Hornets from Oldham last season and, after a settling-in period, was one of the most consistent performers in the Hornets pack.

He has agreed to stay with the Spotland club on the same terms as last season and Goulding is delighted to have him on board. He said: "I'm really pleased. He's a first-class player with a superb attitude. When he arrived from Oldham he was low on confidence, but he worked hard and, towards the end of the season, he was one of our best performers.

"He's a popular member of the squad and I'm hoping for a big season from him."

Highly-rated Price is currently featuring with the Welsh squad in the European Nations Cup.

He is a quality player with the ability to make the big play and to turn matches.

He is an aggressive runner, supports well and scores tries. Goulding believes he can be the lynchpin of Hornets push for promotion. "Gareth is one of the best, if not the best props in National League One. In fact he is a Super League player.

"When he's at his best he can, in the best way possible, do some damage. I'm looking for him to apply himself and to play a major role next season."

Goulding is still waiting to hear from Michael Platt. But he is still confident the pacy fullback, who has been offered a new contract, will be back at Spotland next season.