Dewsbury snap up Morton, Aizue and Gallagher

Tommy Gallagher signed last weekend after Leigh Centurions were knocked out of the Co-operative Championship play-offs by Sheffield Eagles but it is Morrison’s latest two signings which have certainly raised a few eyebrows.

Dale Morton has joined Morrison’s revolution from Super League side Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, where he made 25 appearances and scored eight tries.

Morton can play on the wing, centre or at full-back, while he is also a very useful goalkicker.

His appearances at Wakefield last season were restricted as the Wildcats had a settled back line but Morrison admits he is looking forward to seeing the speedy 21-year-old in action for the Rams.

Dewsbury have also beaten off stiff competition from several other clubs to capture Papua New Guinea prop Makali Aizue from Halifax.

The former Hull KR forward is renowned for his powerful direct running as an impact player and his style is sure to make him a favourite among Rams supporters.

Morrison said: “Makali was my number one target and he was attracting attention from other clubs.

“I sat down and spoke to him face to face and although we do not have big funds, he likes what he heard about where we are trying to take the club and was happy to sign.

“I’m sure we can bring the best back out of him.”

Gallagher is a local lad who brings with him a wealth of experience having graduated from the Leeds Rhinos academy.

He spent time with London Broncos, Widnes and Hull KR in Super League, French Elite outfit Toulouse, who he helped reach the Challenge Cup semi-final in 2005, along with a host of Championship clubs including Batley and Leigh.

Morrison added: “Tommy has been around a bit but was one of the older heads we wanted to bring in to help the team gel.”

Gallagher is a community coach with Wigan Warriors and this is another avenue Morrison is keen to explore if promising young players become available from across the Pennines.

Elliott Cosgrove has penned a new deal to remain at Dewsbury but Danny Samuel, Daley Williams and Darrell Olpherts have been released, while Ryan Esders has followed George Flanagan and Ayden Fall by moving to Batley.