Skinnon Becomes A Rooster

Former Wellington Lions rugby player Steve Skinnon has signed a one-year contract with National Rugby League club Sydney City Roosters.

The 26-year-old is playing prop and wing for the Roosters reserves, coached by former New Zealand Warrior Ivan Cleary.

Skinnon, a former Junior Kiwi league representative, had been trying to break into the NRL ranks since moving to Sydney in 2000.

He played the past two seasons for the Newtown Jets and was with Western Suburbs in 2000.

Skinnon said from Sydney yesterday that his break came after league legend Arthur Beetson, who is a recruitment officer for Sydney City, recommended him to Roosters coach Ricky Stuart in November.

Skinnon was eye gouged by NPC debutant Troy Flavell in 1997, an offence that saw Flavell suspended for a year.

Meanwhile, Marist St Pats wing Dominic Feaunati has returned to Wellington club rugby after a two-week trial with the Cronulla Sharks.

The Sharks were impressed with Feaunati's skills, he scored three tries in two trial matches, but felt he needed more time playing league.