The Centurions have added a real sharp-shooter to their 2006 squad with the
acquisition of the former Hull KR, Toulouse and Lezignan centre. With one of
the most accurate goal-kicking boots in the National Leagues, Couturier is
likely to play a big part in the clubs plans for 2007.
A French international, Couturier has played in test matches against
England, Australia and New Zealand since his international debut and
particularly impressed in 2004 when the French went on to record an 80-0
vanquishing of Russia. He unfortunately picked up an injury against England
in 2005 but by the time 2006 arrived he was firing on all cylinders!
Couturier will be looking to keep his name close to the mind of former
Parramatta, Wigan and London boss John Monie this year as France build up to
the 2008 World Cup.
Couturier played in 25 games for Hull Kingston Rovers last season, booting
84 goals at a 76% success rate. He proved an accomplished attacking player,
scoring nine tries as Rovers swept to the top of National League One and
into the final of the Northern Rail Cup.
Particularly early in the season, Couturier was deadly. In one game he laded
14 goals from 15 attempts as Halifax succumbed to a club record 88-6 defeat.
During the Northern Rail Cup Final it was Couturier that saw a try
disallowed by the video referee close to the end. Had it been awarded Rovers
would have gone on to win the game but Leigh held their nerve to claim a
22-18 victory.
Whilst with Toulouse he was reportedly goalkicking with an 85% success rate.
As the French side proved a scourge of several teams during their dramatic
Challenge Cup run in 2005, Couturier scored 5 tries and booted 27 goals.
After Toulouse boss Justin Morgan was appointed at Hull KR, Damien was one
of his first signings. Couturier debuted for Rovers at the tail-end of 2005.
He went on to make three appearances and kick two goals before having such a
major impact on Rovers 2006.
