Sheffield Eagles Offer Contracts to Irish Internationals

IRISH Rugby League international wingers Tim Bergin and John Coleman are to sign for Sheffield Eagles after a successful three-week trial.

There could be an early call up for one of the players against Halifax in the opening game of the season on Sunday.

Coach Mark Aston says he will offer the pair contracts following good performances in the pre-season friendlies.

"I like the lads, they have some work to do on their game, but I want to keep them here," said Aston.

"They have a good attitude. We will be offering them contracts and keeping them at Sheffield Eagles this season."

Bergin, from Abbeyleix , said the two expect to complete the details this week. He added: "I think I will stay. I've been offered a contract and I'm talking to Mark. We shook on it last week but terms have to be agreed and I'll sign it. John is pretty much in the same boat."

On playing against Super League side Hull FC in Jack Howieson's testimonial game last Sunday he added: "It's been brilliant - I've really enjoyed the last two games. The Hull game was really good. It was a good challenge - those are the big games I want to play in."

Coleman, from Naas, Kildare, kicked two goals in that game to add to the four he put over in the friendly at Doncaster.

The season proper kicks off on Sunday when Halifax come to Don Valley in the opening group stage game of the Northern Rail Cup.

He added: "We may play one of the lads against Halifax. We have to look at the make up of the team and choose the right 17 players."

Irish Carnegie League players Coleman, 23, from the Dublin City Exiles and Tim Bergin, 24, from the Irish Students had long spells in Sunday's game against Super League team Hull FC.