GIVING up sunkissed Sydney for the mud and blood of Bennett's Rec is not everyone's idea of an ideal Christmas.

But it was the beginning of a great adventure for Duane Millard and Greg Marshall, who travelled half way round the world to arrive at Woolston Rovers on Christmas Eve.

Rugby mad Duane, aged 26 and Greg, aged 22, are hoping to impress with Woolston and attract interest from a first division club.

Both are former St. George junior grade players who have stayed involved with the game at amateur club level.

Duane impressed on his debut at second row against Lock Lane on Saturday while Greg needs to shake off a back injury before he can start.

Duane said: "We were both interested in travelling and when we spoke to a coach we know back home, he suggested trying our luck over here.

"He was involved with a Student World Cup team that had been in Warrington and had got on well with Vinny Webb so he recommended Woolston.

"They're a nice bunch of lads down at the club and we're enjoying being involved whether it leads to something at a first division club or not."

Typical

The duo have found a flat in Lymm and are looking for work.

Woolston coach Dave Elliott said the arrival of fresh blood is particularly welcome after a tough first half of the season.

He added: "Duane and Greg have turned up very keen for a game of rugby and having some new faces around is certainly a help after all the injury problems we've had so far this season.

"Duane looked very useful on Saturday and particularly impressed with his defence. He's a typical Aussie in that department really. He's not used to playing on a heavy, muddy pitch so he faded later on but he'll get used to that."

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