By Martin Morgan

Last updated at 10:51, Thursday, 12 November 2009

WORKINGTON Town centre Jason Mossop has joined high-flying Sheffield Eagles - and chairman Dave Bowden reckons the tough-tackling centre could thrive with the Championship’s surprise package.

new eagle: Jason Mossop in action for Town against Haven

The ex-Hensingham ARL youngster recently started university studies in Sheffield, prompting his move to the Eagles, who finished third in the title race last term, just two points behind champs Barrow.

“I’m absolutely delighted for him,” said Bowden. “He’s going to a well-run club, as he starts a university course, and we wish him well.

“He’s doing the right thing, and I’m sure a season at Sheffield will develop his game, and we will see what happens after that.

“Jason has a good chance of doing well in the higher league. It’s a good move for him.”

The west Cumbrian was a first-choice centre for Town last term, scoring two tries in 15 appearances, and was named national student player-of-the-year.

The 24-year-old enjoyed successful trips to Serbia and France with Great Britain Students, and helped Wales land the Home Nations title, while also starring for Leeds Met, who dominated the university scene.

In 2008 he was joint-second in Town’s try-scoring charts, notching 10 in 27 outings, behind Shaun Lunt with 17.

Bowden, who has not ruled out a return to Derwent Park for Mossop in 2011, after he completes his studies, added: “Everyone knows his defence is good, but I think we will have a bit more go-forward this year, and we would have seen Jason in a more attacking vein had he been here.”

Eagles coach Mark Aston said: “I’ve watched Jason when he was at Doncaster, and he’s a big strong thing who knows how to score tries.”

First published at 15:53, Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Published by http://www.whitehaven-news.co.uk