Matt James and Tevita Latu have signed on with the SIT Zero Fees Southland Stags for the next two seasons.

James, a loose forward from Woodlands, was one of the standout players of the past two seasons, with a memorable 50 metre intercept try against Otago proving he’s not just superb on defence.

Joining the mounting list of signings is outside back Tevita Latu, who is linked with Invercargill Marist. Latu made his debut for Southland in 2020, and quickly become a crowd favourite with his dominant presence on the field. Tevita was named SIT Zero Fees Southland Stags Rookie Of The Year at the recent Rugby Southland awards.

Coach Dale MacLeod is particularly pleased to have the two back for the season.

“Matt is a very good player and a great team man, he’s never afraid of putting his body on the line. Tevita is also a big win for us. He came down last club season to prove he has what it takes with Marist and has grown very quickly as a player. Having these two stick around shows that we are building an attractive rugby environment for anyone willing to put their hand up, and that starts at club.”

What makes the signings even more exciting is the fact that both players have interest from Super Rugby teams. 

"If they are prepared to put the work in then those Super opportunities will come." says MacLeod. 

Matt and Tevita will be taking the field this Go Bus Senior Rugby Season with Woodlands and Marist, respectively.

Article added: Tuesday 16 February 2021