BARROW Raiders have swooped for Keighley Cougars Forward Ellis Robson.

Robson has signed a two-year deal with Cumbrians and is the club’s third permanent addition since the end of the 2024 campaign.

Whitehaven duo Ryan King and Curtis Teare have also agreed to join the club for the 2025 season, while a number of Raiders’ current stars have penned contract extensions. 

Speaking to the club’s official website, Robson said: “I’m really excited to be joining the Raiders for the next two years. 

“Barrow are a proud and ambitious club, and when the opportunity came up after speaking to Paul Crarey and Andy Gaffney, I couldn’t turn it down.

“I’m excited to be back in the Championship. As shown this year, the competition is extremely competitive, and I can’t wait to regularly test myself against quality players. 

“Hopefully I can help the club push towards the play-offs, which is where we want to be.

“I base my game around effort areas and competing. Barrow have always been a tough team to play against and a close-knit group, and I’m really looking forward to being a part of that and playing in front of my new fans.”

Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “It’s great news that we’ve managed to secure the services of Ellis Robson.

“He is only 26 and has Super League experience with both Warrington and Salford. Ellis has captained most teams he has been at, and his leadership qualities will be most welcome at the club. 

“We look forward to Ellis taking to the field with us next season and beyond.”

Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “We have long admired Ellis and the qualities he brings to any team.

“He has proven himself to be a leader of men at his previous clubs, and last season he demonstrated his try-scoring abilities as a back-rower.

“Through our conversations with Ellis, he is determined to make a real impact as he returns to play Championship rugby, and I’m sure he will establish himself as a real crowd favourite.”
 

Former Warrington Wolves youngster Robson has spent the last two seasons with Keighley, featuring at both Betfred Championship and League 1 level.

He played primarily in the back row for the Cougars, but has also proven his versatility by covering at centre when called upon. 

Last season saw the 26-year-old enjoy his most prolific try-scoring campaign to date, crossing 19 times in 25 appearances.

During his time at Warrington, Robson enjoyed loan spells at various clubs, including Widnes Vikings, Salford Red Devils and Toulouse Olympique. 

He also spent time as a permanent member of Newcastle Thunder’s squad during the 2022 season.