Massive signing as Bulls recruit Skinner 

FOUR days out from a Group Nine premiership showdown with Albury, Southcity is celebrating the recruitment of a gun forward with a potent pedigree.

Bulls president Steve Jones yesterday breathlessly announced Sea Eagles back-rower Nick Skinner had been snared for next year.

Skinner was born and bred in Wagga, but has since built an imposing reputation with NRL clubs Canberra and Manly.

Despite an offer from the Sea Eagles, and interest from the Knights, Skinner will turn his back on the NRL to return to Wagga.

Jones yesterday revealed Skinner had “agreed to terms” with the Bulls on Tuesday night, ending weeks of speculation about the future of the imposing young forward.

“Obviously we’re thrilled to have Nick for 2014,” Jones said.

“He had been offered a tier two contract with Manly and Newcastle were also talking to him, but is happy to be coming back to Wagga.”

Southcity’s coup with Skinner came as the Wagga club ended negotiations with current Bidgee Hurricanes captain-coach Chris Bamford.

As late as last week it seemed Bamford was set to join the Bulls, but he has now decided to stay with the Group 20 club for another year.

“We (Southcity) did have discussions with Chris, but he has a two-year deal with Bidgee Hurricanes,” Jones said.

“He’s doing the right thing by honouring the contract.

“We would be prepared to talk to him maybe for the year after (2015).”

On a day of major recruitment news, Jones also revealed current stars Peter Little and Wil Merritt had re-signed for 2014.

However, English winger Shaun Ainscough was confirmed as returning to England and cutting ties with Southcity next year.

“Shaun has not ruled out coming back in 2015,” Jones said.

With Ainscough’s wing spot open, Jones declared teenage star Jack Lyons would be a perfect replacement for the English flyer.

“Jack is being chased by a few (NRL) clubs and if something comes off for him we won’t stand in his way,” Jones said.

“We’ll do the same for Nick Skinner and Jordan Shepherd, who has also signed with us for next year.

“If they get an offer we wouldn’t stand in their way.”

Setting a firm agenda, Southcity’s rash of signings puts the club in a formidable position before next year’s premiership, but leaves several other clubs lagging way behind.