Northampton Saints has announced three new contracts ahead of the 2016/17 season.
Ahsee Tuala has renewed his commitment to the club by putting pen to paper on a new deal. The Samoan international back arrived at Franklin’s Gardens just over 12 months ago and has scored six tries in his 19 appearances to date, with his versatility at full back and on the wing having been utilised by the Saints coaches.
Meanwhile two promising front rowers have agreed full terms with the Saints.
Prop Matt Beesley has been training with the squad for a number of weeks already and had run-outs for the Wanderers in the Aviva ‘A’ League. The 24-year-old loosehead prop trained with the Yorkshire Carnegie Academy while studying in Leeds before joining Wharfedale in National League One in 2014. He has represented England Counties - whose squad is drawn from clubs below the Championship - and England Students.
Finally, Charlie Clare will become part of a rare breed of player to have been on the books at all three main East Midlands clubs. The 24-year-old hooker joins the Saints from Bedford, where he has impressed in the Blues’ rise to the Championship’s top four this season. Prior to his time at Goldington Road Clare learned his trade at Leicester, which included loan spells at Nottingham, Jersey and Loughborough Students. He was also chosen for the Championship XV that took on Canada in November 2014.
Director of rugby Jim Mallinder highlighted the qualities Tuala has brought to Franklin’s Gardens, while forwards coach Dorian West says he is looking forward to working with two new forwards.
“Ahsee has been a good player for us over the past year and we’re delighted that he’s agreed to stay with us,” Mallinder said. “His performance in Glasgow - when he scored two tries - springs to mind, while he also impressed in the first half at Exeter recently.
“Those kind of displays have helped make him an important part of our squad.”
“Matt and Charlie are two young front rowers who are really promising,” West added. “Matt has impressed us while he’s been training with us and playing for the Wanderers with his technical abilities and willingness to learn. Meanwhile Charlie has a solid grounding from his time with Leicester and Bedford, where he has been one of their standout players in an impressive season.”
