Dixon makes Royals history by turning out for Coventry

Dixon was able to hold his head up high despite his side going down to a 50-4 defeat against Crusaders who are fourth in the Kingstone Press League One, which is just two divisions below Super League.

Royals chairman Ash Howlett was keen to praise the winger, saying: “Chris signed for us five years ago having never played rugby league and it’s great to see how far he has come.

“It’s a message to other players there that it’s never too late to take up a new sport.

“We are incredibly proud to have introduced Chris to rugby league and by becoming our first professional he has written his own piece of Royals history.”