Pontypool RFC bolsters backs division with the signing Matthew Jarvis

Pontypool RFC is pleased to announce the signing of established WRU Indigo Premiership back, Matthew Jarvis from Merthyr RFC, ahead of next season.

The 30-year-old joins the club after enjoying a trophy-laden five-year spell at The Wern Sports Park with the Indigo Premiership side. Jarvis played a key part in the club lifting three Premiership titles and one WRU National Cup, with his place-kicking ability a particular strength for Dale McIntosh's men. The Neath man, who started his career at the Ospreys, has also enjoyed stints in Ireland with Connacht and England with Nottingham and Ealing Trailfinders.

On joining Pooler, Jarvis said: "After five successful years at Merthyr, I was attracted by the idea of a new challenge. Everyone in Welsh rugby is aware of Pontypool's ambition and it is attractive to you as a player. When I first joined Merthyr, they were still in the Championship, so I know the league well and the challenges it presents.

"The club's fan base was another key factor for me. Pontypool undoubtedly attract one of the largest home attendances in Welsh club rugby and being able to play in front of the biggest crowds possible is something you aspire to as a player.”

The former Osprey featured regularly at full-back during his five-year stay with Merthyr, but also has the ability to be utilised in the number ten jersey at Pontypool Park. The club's backs coach, Tom Hancock, is looking forward to working with the new recruit.

"Matthew is a significant signing for the club,” said Hancock. “His kicking game is one of, if not the best in the country and at 30, he is still enjoying his peak years. We have a group of players capable of playing at stand-off that are of the highest quality.

"Matthew is an attack-minded fly-half and will fit in perfectly with the style of play that we are trying to produce at Pontypool Park. The attacking game of any side relies on the entire squad playing their part, although the added importance of your pivot is obvious. I am confident that Matthew will fit in perfectly with our high-tempo style of rugby and help to continue to make us an attractive side to watch.

"The cancellation of the 2019-2020 season caused a lot of uncertainty, but hopefully the signing of someone of Matthew’s calibre will reassure fans that we are still serious in our intention of achieving promotion to the Indigo Premiership."