Niko Matawalu extends Glasgow Warriors stay until May 2019

Glasgow Warriors have been handed a boost ahead of the 1872 Cup showdown with Edinburgh after winger Niko Matawalu extended his stay at Scotstoun until May 2019.
Niko Matawalu put in a fine performance in Glasgow's 31-21 win over Leinster last month. Picture: SNS GroupNiko Matawalu put in a fine performance in Glasgow's 31-21 win over Leinster last month. Picture: SNS Group
Niko Matawalu put in a fine performance in Glasgow's 31-21 win over Leinster last month. Picture: SNS Group

The Fiji international returned to Warriors in August, signing a one-year deal, after initially playing for the club between 2012 and 2015.

In 84 appearances for Glasgow split over his two spells, the 28-year-old has scored 28 tries and helped the club to the Guinness PRO12 title in 2015.

Matawalu in action against Cardiff Blues. Picture: SNS GroupMatawalu in action against Cardiff Blues. Picture: SNS Group
Matawalu in action against Cardiff Blues. Picture: SNS Group
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He returned to Glasgow after short stints with Bath and Exeter Chiefs, and put in a Man of the Match performance against Leinster in last month’s Guinness PRO14 victory.

Speaking to Warriors TV, Matawalu said he was ‘very happy and excited’ to be extending his stay at Glasgow, adding: “I always say that when you’re happy you will perform well, so I’m very honoured to be back and I’m looking forward to to being here for another season.

“It’s good playing in front of our supporters and I’m enjoying playing under Dave [Rennie] and being part of his team.”

Matawalu in action against Cardiff Blues. Picture: SNS GroupMatawalu in action against Cardiff Blues. Picture: SNS Group
Matawalu in action against Cardiff Blues. Picture: SNS Group

Warriors No 2 Kenny Murray paid tribute to Matawalu, hailing the ‘outstanding performances’ of the ‘big fans’ favourite’.

“He’s fitted in really well with the team and picked up how we’re trying to play the game,” said Murray.

“That high-tempo, high-paced game really suits Niko and he’s shown already how dangerous he can be in broken field and in unstructured attack.

“His ability to put teams under pressure from counter-attack is outstanding, the Leinster game here at Scotstoun is an example of that and it’s been great having him back.

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“He brings an x-factor in attack that people want to pay money to come and watch, so it’s great news for the club that he’ll be here for another year at least,” he added.