Featherstone Rovers: Sharp's eyes opened by heavy defeats

Walters has joined Rovers on loan from Leeds Rhinos and featured in the 62-16 loss at Huddersfield Giants in the First Utility Qualifiers two days ago.

“He played well,” Sharp said. “He came up with some really good stuff, to say he had not played for several weeks. He has got good footwork and he is a big lad.”

Fellow Rhinos loan players Luke Briscoe and Jordan Baldwinson were also in Rovers’ side and Sharp added: “I hope the Leeds lads enjoy it and feel they have improved from the game time when they go back.”

Rovers also conceded 62 points in their opening middle-eights fixture against Rhinos, but Sharp said: “Like the Leeds game, it was a decent competition for half an hour. But we made too many errors and ultimately that caught up with us. Their superior fitness told in the end, but I found out lots about our younger players. Luke Cooper and Bradley Tagg looked comfortable at that next level up.

“From the older end, Kyle Briggs and Ian Hardman were the same and it was a good experience for Jack Ormondroyd. It is invaluable – it is not just about the points, it’s about what it can do for the group long term.”