Sam Christie signing completes overhaul of Emirates Western Force backline

Waikato fly-half Sam Christie has claimed the final Extended Playing Squad contract for 2013, completing the overhaul of the Emirates Western Force backline.

Depth

Michael Foley, Head Coach, also conveyed his delight with Christie's signing. He said: "Being such a pivotal position, we wanted to ensure we had depth at fly-half this season. We've now got four quality options at '10' - as well as the ability to cover a number of other positions - through the retention of Kyle Godwin and the recruitment of Sias Ebersohn, Sam Norton-Knight and now Sam Christie. "Sam's form with Waikato was impressive during the ITM Cup, including a strong showing in their Ranfurly Shield win over Taranaki. We invited him to train with us in the lead-in to Christmas and he demonstrated that he's not only ready to take the next step to Super Rugby when called upon to do so, but is hungry and eager for that opportunity. "Sam's a confident, attacking player. He's strong under pressure, he's got an accurate passing game and he'll be pushing hard for game time this season."