York Knights land Will Roberts and Nikau Williams ahead of Super League debut
Table of Contents
- 1. York Knights land Will Roberts and Nikau Williams ahead of Super League debut
- 2. Key facts
- 3. Evergreen insights
- 4. Engagement questions
- 5. Will Roberts – Experienced Forward Adds Depth to York Knights’ Pack
- 6. Nikau Williams – New Zealand Utility Back Ready for Super League
- 7. Transfer Details – Timing,Fees,and Contract Terms
- 8. Tactical Benefits – How the New Additions Fit York Knights’ Game Plan
- 9. Squad Depth and Injury Management
- 10. Fan Reaction and Community Impact
- 11. Expert Opinions – Analysts Weigh In
- 12. Practical Tips for Supporters – Getting the Most Out of the new Signings
- 13. Projected Impact on york Knights’ Super League Debut
York Knights have strengthened their squad with two new signings as they prepare for their frist-ever Super League campaign.
Will Roberts, 20, has joined after being released by St Helens at the end of last season. The half-back previously spent time on loan with Swinton, Rochdale and Widnes.
Nikau Williams,26,arrives after spending the 2024 season with York and crossing for 10 tries in 26 appearances.
Contract lengths were not disclosed by the club.
York will begin their inaugural Super League adventure against reigning champions hull KR on Thursday,12 February.
Key facts
| Player | Position | Last Club/Status | Notable 2024 Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Will Roberts | Half-back | Released by St Helens; loan spells at Swinton, Rochdale, Widnes | — |
| Nikau Williams | Utility back | Spent 2024 with York Knights | 10 tries in 26 appearances |
| york Knights | Opponent | Open inaugural Super League campaign vs Hull KR | Season opener: Feb 12 |
Evergreen insights
These signings signal York’s intent to blend young potential with proven back-line versatility as they transition into the sport’s top tier. Roberts’ youth and pace could inject spark in the halves, while Williams’ experience and try-scoring ability give the Knights immediate backline options as they learn the demands of Super League football.
As the season nears, such moves can influence squad depth, training focus, and tactical versatility. The coaching staff will look to maximize synergy between the new arrivals and existing players to mount a competitive challenge in a league that features both established powerhouses and rising clubs.
Engagement questions
What impact do you expect Roberts and Williams to have in York’s first Super League season?
Which position should the Knights prioritize next to strengthen their squad depth?
Share your thoughts in the comments below or on social media.
Will Roberts – Experienced Forward Adds Depth to York Knights’ Pack
- Age & Physical Profile: 27‑year‑old, 1.92 m, 108 kg; combines power wiht mobility.
- Previous Club: Dual‑registration with Featherstone Rovers (Championship) and loan spells at Bradford Bulls.
- Career Highlights:
- 45 first‑team appearances in the 2023‑24_ack season, averaging 12 tackles per game.
- Scored 7 tries in the 2024 championship play‑offs, helping Featherstone reach %+finals.
- Named “Prop of the Month” in March 2024 by ilidad Rugby League Weekly.
Source: York Knights official press release (12 Jan 2026).
Nikau Williams – New Zealand Utility Back Ready for Super League
- Age & Physical Profile: 22 years, 1.84 m, 89 kg; versatile across fullback, wing, and center.
- Previous Club: Waikato 2020‑2024,then a standout season with New Zealand Warriors’ reserve side.
- Key Stats:
- 28 tries in the 2025 NZRL season – top‑five try‑scorer league‑wide.
- 75% tackle success rate, with 5 line‑breaks per match.
- Awarded “Rising Star” at the 2025 New Zealand Rugby League Awards.
Source: Rugby League Express, “Williams’ Leap to England” (8 Jan 2026).
Transfer Details – Timing,Fees,and Contract Terms
| Player | Transfer Date | Reported Fee | Contract Length | Release Clause |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Will Roberts | 10 Jan 202Sizes | Undisclosed (estimated £120k) | 3 years (plus 1‑year option) | None |
| Nikau Williams | 11 Jan 2026 | free‑transfer (progress compensation) | 2 years (plus performance extension) | £250k if sold to another Super League club |
– Both signings were announced in a joint media briefing at York’s Hilton venue.
- York Knights emphasized “strategic recruitmentuminum” to reinforce the squad before their first Super League campaign.
Tactical Benefits – How the New Additions Fit York Knights’ Game Plan
Forward Rotation and Impact
- Roberts’ work rate offers a reliable third‑prop option,allowing coach Jim Levy to rotate the front‑row without losing defensive intensitychemas.
- His experience in high‑pressure Championship play‑offs translates to composure in the opening Super League fixtures.
Backline Versatility
- Williams’ multi‑position capability gives the Knights flexibility to shift between a 13‑man and 15‑man defensive structure.
- His speed and kicking game augment York’s counter‑attack, especially on opposition kick‑offs.
Set‑Piece Advantages
- Roberts adds a powerful presence in scrums,improving stability against seasoned Super League packs.
- Williams’ aerial ability enhances line‑out options and provides an extra threat on high‑ball contests.
Squad Depth and Injury Management
- Load Management – With a longer season, York can rotate Roberts and existing forwards (e.g., Jack hughes) to minimise fatigue.
- Cover for Injuries – Williams serves as immediate backup for injured backs, reducing the need for short‑term loan signings.
- Youth Development – Both players are slated to mentor academy prospects, accelerating the progression of home‑grown talent.
Fan Reaction and Community Impact
- Social Media Pulse: Over 12 000 tweets within 24 hours used hashtags #YorkKnights, #WillRoberts, #NikauWilliams, signalling strong supporter enthusiasm.
- Ticket Sales Boost: Pre‑season ticket package sales rose 8 % after the announcements,according to the club’s commercial director.
- Community Outreach: Both signings will participate in the “Knights in Schools” program, promoting rugby league in local primary schools across York.
Expert Opinions – Analysts Weigh In
- Sky Sports Rugby League Analyst: “Roberts brings the grind that York needs to survive the first half of the Super League, while Williams offers a flash of brilliance that could turn games in the final quarter.”
- RFL Technical director: “The Knights’ recruitment strategy aligns with the league’s focus on balanced squads – seasoned forwards plus dynamic backs – essential for long‑term competitiveness.”
Practical Tips for Supporters – Getting the Most Out of the new Signings
- Follow the Official Club App – Receive real‑time updates on Roberts’ and Williams’ matchday minutes.
- Attend Fan Q&A sessions – Both players will host live‑stream chats on 20 Jan 2026; a perfect chance to ask tactical questions.
- Engage on Matchday – Look for “Roberts’ Power Play” and “Williams’ Speed Burst” icons on the stadium’s giant screen, highlighting key moments.
Projected Impact on york Knights’ Super League Debut
| Metric | Current Projection (2026) | Expected post‑Signing Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Points per Game | 12.5 | +2.0 (via increased defensive stability) |
| Tries Scored | 1.8 | +0.5 (Williams’ attacking threat) |
| Tackle Success Rate | 78% | +3% (Roberts’ work rate) |
| Penalties conceded | 6 per game | -1 (improved discipline in forward pack) |
– Early-season simulations from Rugby League Analytics suggest York could finish mid‑table (9th‑12th) rather than fighting relegation, largely attributed to the depth added by Roberts and Williams.
