BRADD Crellin’s displays have not gone unnoticed by head coach Paul Crarey during Barrow Raiders’ first two pre-season games.

The second row, who signed on for a fifth year at Craven Park last September, produced his usual solid defensive performances in the defeat to Oldham and the win over Whitehaven, along with making the hard yards with the ball in hand early in the tackle count.

Described by rugby director Andy Gaffney as “Mr Dependable” when he re-signed last year, Crellin is one of the unsung heroes of the Raiders squad.

And while he may not start every week, boss Crarey is in no doubt of his importance to the team.

“He’s very, very solid defensively and that’s his game,” said Crarey.

“If we could develop a running game for him he would be outstanding for us and sometimes he loses out because of team dynamics.

“But he’s a great squad player for us and he’s so reliable and never moans.

“Sometimes he asks me why he’s not getting selected, and sometimes it’s down to dynamics and his running game, but as a bloke, he’s a top one and as a player, he’s a good solid one for this squad.

“He was one of the first to sign up for us this year, and he’s done brilliantly for me as a bloke and as a player.”

The second row is potentially one of Barrow’s biggest areas of strength, with Crellin, Jono Smith and Dan Toal all vying for places, along with Jarrad Stack on the verge of returning after a long spell out with a knee injury, and new signings Willie Minoga and Jordan Walne able to play there as well.

Gareth Hock can slot in there too if needed when he makes his belated debut later on in the 2019 Betfred Championship season following shoulder surgery, and Crarey has assured everyone they will get an opportunity at some point due to the demands of the competition.

“It’s a long season, we’ve got 30-odd games and cup games, and all of the squad will be used no matter what team we put out early on in the season,” said Crarey.

“There have been some good, solid performances over these pre-season friendlies and the big word we’re looking for is consistency in what we do.”