Saints Full Back Signs

By Ridley Hall
July 4 2002

Never underestimate Rob Andrew's ability to surprise us. Just when we're waiting with baited breath to see which international superstar prop he is going to sign he nips down the M1 and lands full back Joe Shaw from Saints.

Rob has got himself a quality and emerging full back in Shaw who has a head of hair which makes him stand out in any maul.

But the signing of the 22 year-old opens up all sorts of intrigue at a time when Liam Botham was looking like he had finally found his niche as understudy to Dave Walder.

You can bet that Shaw is not coming to sit on a bench. He was understudy to Beal at Northampton, and a popular player, so why would he move just to do the same job for Falcons?

It all revolves around Walder. He's destined to play more matches at 10 with Wilkinson's increasing intertnational demands but could he also be lined up for Inga's old utility role? We are short of cover in the centre. And what about the enigmatic Mr Botham?

For the record Shaw made 21 appearances for Saints scoring four tries. He's quick, good under a high ball and likes to counter attack but kicking out of hand could, apparently, be better.