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In a big day for the Manly Sea Eagles, they have granted NSW Origin forward Anthony Watmough a release from his contract.
Watmough had been widely reported to be seeking a release to join the Parramatta Eels in the 2015 NRL season, but until now no confirmation had been forthcoming.
A Manly junior, 31-year-old Watmough has played 278 games for the Sea Eagles, on top of eight games for the Northern Eagles, claiming two premiership rings in the process.
Geoff Toovey expressed disappointment to lose a player like Watmough.
“Anthony is a local junior, a two-time premiership winner and a life-member of the Club. I’m disappointed to lose a quality player such as Anthony Watmough.”
“He has been an integral part of the success here at Manly for many years.
“We wish him all the best for the future and thank him for his service to the Sea Eagles.”
Often considered to be Manly through and through, it may look strange to some fans to see him in different colours next season.
The Sea Eagles have moved quickly to replace him, though, signing released Warriors forward Feleti Mateo, Knights discard Willie Mason and Siosaia Vave. They have also extended the contract of 32-year-old centre and captain Jamie Lyon for two years, keeping him at the club until the end of 2016.
Mason’s future was in limbo for a period, but he seemed happy with his move to the northern beaches.
“I’m excited to be joining the Sea Eagles. It’s a highly-respected club with a history of success,” Mason said.
“Everyone talks about the culture here and the winning mentality, so I’mlooking forward to being a part of that next season.
“This is my third NRL club now and I’ve done pre-seasons at other clubs but I really want to show Geoff [Toovey] and the coaching staff that I’m ready to rip in from the get go.”
The addition of Mateo will help offset the loss of Watmough and Glenn Stewart, and will provide Manly with another ballplaying forward option to give diversity to their attack.
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