DEC PATTON SIGNS CONTRACT EXTENSION

We are delighted to announce Dec Patton has signed a one-year contract extension – taking him through until at least the end of the 2023 season!

The half-back, who joined from Super League outfit Salford Red Devils, has enjoyed a blistering start to life in the red, amber and black scoring 18 points in the opening day win over Dewsbury Rams. 

Patton joins fellow half-back Jordan Lilley in signing until the end of next season – with the club acting fast to tie down a key player. 

Dec has spoken of his happiness at the club, how he settled quickly and how his team-mates have helped him fall back in love with the sport. 

“I am over the moon to have signed, I know it has only been a short time but the way pre-season has gone and the fact we went pretty well in our fits game we can start building,” said Patton, who is sponsored by BMG. 

“[On being happy and settled] That’s a big thing, I have fallen back in love with the game with the set of lads we have here I am enjoying my rugby and enjoying training so it was a no brainer. 

“The lads we have here it is not hard to settle at all they are a good bunch with John and Mark Dunning who have made it very easy for me. 

“The number one goal is playing well week in, week out and hopefully push for top spot and promotion and for myself I have been trying to help the team but I need to work on myself more and help the team that way.

“We have a lot to work on which is a good thing as our standards have been set a lot higher so putting points on a team like that and not being that happy is a good thing. 

“We had eight first teamers not playing and we stressed it is about the squad not the 17 – it is pretty exciting because I think we have so many more levels to go up. 

“It was the first game, you don’t come out firing but if we can continue putting points on and putting our foot on the throats we’ll come out good.

Dec has become a popular figure in his short time with the club and has already seen the masses of supporters back the team – home and away – and paid tribute to the noise they brought. 

“It feels good to see that reaction from the fans, I was surprised by how loud they were at Dewsbury even though I’d been told just how loud they are!,” said Patton. 

“I am happy with that and now I just want to win as many games as possible and get us to the big dance at the end of the season.” 

Bradford boss John Kear admits he is ‘over the moon’ – hailing the impression Dec has made on everyone at the club and highlights the stability it now brings. 

“I am absolutely delighted, Dec has come in and made a big impression upon everyone – he has impressed staff and players and what he is doing, is enjoying rugby league again,” said Kear. 

“When you do get that feeling it is often a good idea to stay and enjoy the ride, that’s what he’s decided to do and I couldn’t be happier. 

“His agent has been very good Iestyn Harris, he has conversed with me regularly and Dec has been really good too and we are absolutely over the moon we have him for this year and the whole of next year. 

“We now have two half backs signed for next year in Jordan Lilley and Dec Patton and that is an element of stability we have to enjoy and take going forward – it is something I am particularly pleased with and I am delighted the club staff have acted in such a manner.” 

Dec is in contention to make his second appearance of the season when Sheffield Eagles come to town on Sunday. 

Buy your spot now and SAVE on Matchday admission prices – with John Kear’s side looking to maintain their 100% start to the season. 

CLICK HERE to book your ticket – alternatively, call us on 0333 323 5075 or visit the Team Shop. 

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