News

Double boost for Dragons

July 02 2009

The Dragons have bolstered their back-line in preparation for 2009/10 after completing the signing of Will Harries from Northampton.

Harries joins the Welsh region in conjunction with promising fly-half Jason Tovey extending his period at Rodney Parade for a further two terms.

Rising star Tovey's new extension will see him remain at the club until 2012 following a strong year that saw him perform equally well at both full-back and number ten.

The 20-year-old joins fellow youngsters Aaron Coundley, Lewis Evans and Hugh Gustafson in penning fresh deals and is convinced he made the right decision in staying at the Magners League outfit.

"I'm really pleased to be staying on at the Dragons," he said.

"I can see that things are moving here and we have made some good signings to strengthen our squad.

"Having come through the Dragons Academy, this is very much my team and I want to stay here for the foreseeable future and I'm delighted to have been able to extend my contract.

"Playing for Wales is obviously a big goal for me. I was delighted to get selected for the Welsh tour to North America over the summer and I feel that if I stay in form this season, then hopefully I'll have a shot at getting selected again."

Tovey showed ample maturity for the Dragons during the season's latter stages and Head Coach Paul Turner admitted he was impressed and delighted to keep the now Wales international.

"Jason showed last season his future potential and maturity as a player," said Turner.

"He is one of the rising stars of Welsh rugby and we are delighted to have secured his services for a further two seasons. He's a local lad who has come through the ranks of the regions and having decided to stay with us, despite other interests, he has shown his loyalty to the team and the supporters of the Dragons.

"This signing clearly demonstrates our ability to develop and retain Welsh talent whilst bringing in experience."

Meanwhile, the signing of 22-year-old full-back Harries was met with equal delight by Turner as he brings back the Welsh Sevens player from the Guinness Premiership.

"We are delighted to be able to bring Will back to Wales, and in particular to the region where he started his career in our academy," said Dragons Rugby Manager Robert Beale.

"He is an exciting young talent and we expect him to have a prominent presence in our squad for next season.

"Will is renowned for his finishing abilities and he will bring an excitement to the back play. Although he will play predominantly on the wing, the fact that he can also cover full-back makes him a valuable signing for us."