Rochdale Hornets boost 2025 squad with a return and new signing 

Rochdale Hornets have announced two key additions ahead of the 2025 season, with the return of fan-favourite Fijian prop Joe Taira and the arrival of versatile half-back Morgan Punchard.

These moves come as Hornet look to build on last season's progress, reinforcing their squad with experienced talent and local connections.

Joe Taira, 35, has signed a one-year contract with Hornets, returning to the club where he began his professional career in 2016. Taira, a powerful forward well-known among Rochdale fans, has made 104 appearances for Hornets across two stints, interspersed with a two-year spell at Betfred Championship side Batley Bulldogs.

Following his departure in 2022, Taira continued to play locally, joining amateur side Rochdale Mayfield and representing Fiji in a World Cup warm-up match against England later that autumn.

Taira expressed excitement about returning to the Crown Oil Arena. He said he felt “buzzing to be back at the place I started my professional career” and saw it as fitting that he would end his career where it all began.

Reflecting on Hornets' recent performances, he said: “The boys were unlucky last season but showed some really promising signs, and I believe I can help them to make the next step.” Now entering the final stages of his career, Taira is eager to prove himself once more, saying he looked forward to “getting stuck into pre-season training.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton welcomed Taira’s return, citing his robust playing style and strong reputation among fans.

He said: “I’m really pleased to have Joe back in the fold.

“He’s obviously no stranger to Hornets fans, and I’m sure they will be delighted to see him back. His uncompromising style in attack and defence will be a big benefit for us next year. He was a popular and well-respected member of the group in his previous spells at the club, and with his experience, he will be a welcome addition to our 2025 squad.”

 

 

Alongside Taira’s return, Hornets have secured the signing of Morgan Punchard, a versatile 25-year-old half-back from League 1 side Cornwall, where he spent the past two seasons.

Punchard, who has previously played for Hunslet, Dewsbury Rams, and Featherstone Rovers, brings added flexibility to Hornets’ lineup. In addition to his role in the halves, he offers experience at hooker, a position he has often played throughout his career.

Punchard shared his enthusiasm about joining Rochdale. “I’m really excited to be joining Rochdale and meeting all the boys,” he said, adding that he was drawn to the club by its ambition. “I joined this club because I see where it is heading, and I want to be a part of that.

"I spoke to Gary Thornton at length, and I liked everything he had to say about the club.” He expressed confidence in his ability to help push the team toward the play-offs, saying he was keen to contribute to their aim of competing at the top end of the table."

Thornton praised Punchard as a valuable addition, noting his experience and versatility.

He said: “Morgan has joined us from Cornwall and is another established League 1 player.

“He has a wealth of experience and has been in good systems at Halifax and Featherstone, and is equally effective at pivot or hooker. I’m sure Morgan will complement our existing pivots and add real depth to our squad.”

The Hornets' recruitment ahead of 2025 highlights their intent to strengthen across the field, balancing seasoned players with promising new talent.

Taira and Punchard join a lineup featuring fellow half-backs Lewis Hollidge and reigning Betfred League 1 Player of the Year Lewis Else, along with Martyn Ridyard, giving Rochdale fans reason to look forward to a competitive season.