Premiership Strugglers Bristol Announce The Signing Of Former All Black

Premiership strugglers Bristol have added a former All Black to their ranks.

The English outfit have underwent a bit of a resurgence in recent weeks, picking up their first wins of the season. They still sit bottom of the table but are now within touching distance of Worcester and gaining on fellow strugglers Sale Sharks.

They have now revealed that former All Black scrumhalf Alby Mathewson has joined them until the end of the season as they look to build on their recent form and make a push up the Premiership table.

Mathewson brings with him a wealth of experience, having lined out for the All Blacks on four occasions and racked up over 130 Super Rugby appearances with the likes of the Hurricanes and the Auckland Blues

Bristol head coach Mark Tainton has spoken of his admiration for the 31 year-old.

“He’s a good communicator and has performed consistently at the highest level during his career. It’s a crucial period in the Aviva Premiership for Bristol Rugby and we believe Alby’s introduction will sharpen our performances at the business end of the campaign.”

The player himself is said he is excited about the prospect of playing in the Premiership.

“It’s an exciting prospect to play in the Aviva Premiership and to represent Bristol – a team that is clearly on the up and playing with confidence.

“There’s a solid plan and structure in place here. Bristol know where they need to be and what they need to do to stay up. Everybody has bought into that culture and I’m fully committed to playing my part in helping the Club achieve their goals this season.”

Current Connacht head coach Pat Lam will take the reigns at Bristol at the end of the season, and will no doubt be hoping Mathewson can help keep them in the Premiership.