The son of former New Zealand, Llanelli and Wigan outside half Frano, and brother of ex-Harlequins and now Montpellier No 10 Ben, the 23-year-old made his debut for the north Wales side in their pre-season friendly against a Newport Gwent Dragons development side at Parc Eirias at the weekend.
Born in Wigan while his father was playing for the famous rugby league side, Jacob is an expert goalkicker like his father and elder brother and came through the North Harbour academy system in New Zealand. He played for the North Shore club before spending last season at Agen.
He could help to solve the RGC 1404 outside half problem following the switch to Harlequins of 21-year-old James Lang. He kicked a penalty and converted one of his new side’s three tries in a 26-20 defeat.
“We talked about building on the foundations of last season, including physicality, intensity and speed of game and we were outstanding in all those aspects, especially as it was our first game of the season,” said RGC 1404 coach Josh Leech.
“Our set-piece looked good and Ross Davies looked good on his debut. It was also pleasing to see young players Jed Kerkin and Sam Wainwright gaining experience against a regional side.”
The home side got off to a flying start and led 15-7 in the opening quarter thanks to tries from full back Afon Bagshaw and centre Tom Hughes that added to the five points from Botica’s boot. A third try, from Tiaan Loots, made it 20-19 to the home side at the break.
Arwel Robson bagged the first of four tries for the Dragons with Darren Harris, new recruit Pat Howard and James Benjamin claiming the others. There were three conversions from Rhys Jones to complete the victory.
