He made his debut this year for the Canberra Raiders and enjoyed a decent stint in first-grade – impressing in the process – but sometimes, a move is what is best and for centre Matt Allwood, he will cross the Tasman and play for the New Zealand Warriors.
Signing a deal with the Warriors from next season until the end of 2017, the signing is not a foreign one for the Warriors, with current coach Andrew McFadden working with the talented centre in the past.
With 9 first-grade games to his name so far after impressive stints in both the Holden Cup and NSW Cup for the Raiders, McFadden knows what the kid is made of and what he can bring to the club.
“I saw Matt come through Canberra’s system into the NYC and was impressed with him from the outset,†he said.
“He’s quick and he’s a tough kid, too. It’s great to have a young player of his ability coming into the club to add to add depth and quality to our centres.
“It will help make the environment really competitive, which is just what we need.â€
Although he has signed with the Warriors, Allwood knows that he owes the Raiders gratitude and he will not forget his first-grade debut.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity the Raiders have given me to play at the club from a junior level and to make my NRL debut with them is something I’ll never forget,†he said.
“Although I’ve signed a new deal with the Warriors, I’m still committed to playing out the season for the Raiders and hopefully finishing my time with the club on a high.
“I’m looking forward to working with Andrew McFadden at the Warriors and the chance to continue to build my NRL career.â€