Pictured: Cronulla Sharks signing Todd Murphy, a XXXX man of the match recipient with the Norths Devils this year.
Norths Devils have moved swiftly to shore up the key halfback position in the wake of Todd Murphy’s move to the Cronulla Sharks.
Murphy will play for the NRL club in 2015 after a breakthrough season with the Devils in the Intrust Super Cup saw him represent Queensland Residents and finish second in the Courier-Mail Medal.
London Broncos recruit Mike Bishay is one candidate to play halfback next year after agreeing to join the Brisbane club.
Devils coach Mark Gliddon concedes Murphy is a big loss, but is thrilled to see the former Broncos Under 20s playmaker get a shot in the NRL.
“This year he was terrific from day one, right through to our final game,” Gliddon said.
NORTHS DEVILS
Gains: Mike Bishay (London Broncos), Matt Mizzi (Central Queensland Capras), James Leavai (Sunshine Coast Falcons), Steve Elliott, (North Queensland Cowboys), Josh Lynam (Keighley Cougars), AJ Nona (Wynnum Seagulls), Sean Yorston (Souths Logan Magpies).
Losses: Todd Murphy (Cronulla Sharks), Brendon Gibb (Wynnum Manly Seagulls), Shaun Carney (Tweed Heads Seagulls), Jared Blanke (Southport Tigers), Tristan Lumley (Redcliffe Dolphins).
Coach: Mark Gliddon
Home Ground: Bishop Park, Nundah
2014 Finish: Eighth, 11 wins, 13 losses.