Last updated at 12:41, Wednesday, 20 June 2012

Carl Sice is on the verge of becoming the most prolific forward in Whitehaven’s 64-year history.

Carl Sice

The elusive No 9 has crossed 84 times for Haven, just four less than Aaron Lester, rated by many as the Recre’s greatest ever hooker.

And he is tipped to soon overtake the Kiwi as he closes in on the century mark.

“Carl’s been a great player for Whitehaven and has plenty of years left in the game,” said chief executive Barry Richardson.

“I hope he’s part of our side in the Championship next year. He can score tries and make breaks out of nothing.

“He has also matured as a person over the last couple of years and this year his attitude has been fantastic.

“If there’s any work to be done in local schools, he’s one of those who puts his hand up. He’s more than keen to help.”

Sice, who has crossed six times in 13 appearances this term, sits eighth on the club’s all-time try-scoring list and should overtake Lester’s tally this season. And just turned 32, he could have a few seasons left in the pro ranks to improve his position further.

The ex-Kells ace is just 11 tries adrift of Lee Kiddie and 25 behind Leroy Joe, fifth on the ladder. Joe moved into the pack late in his career but enjoyed his best years at stand-off, from where he plundered most of his tries.

“Carl can pull out the unexpected when necessary,” added Richardson.

David Seeds, who went on to coach the side last term, tops the list on 225 tries, ahead of current favourite Craig Calvert, 164, the late Bill Smith on 147 and former international Vince Gribbin, 142.

First published at 11:28, Wednesday, 20 June 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk