Castleford Tigers: Powell picks out Samoa internationals for priase

DELIGHTED Castleford Tigers boss Daryl Powell described Peter Mata'utia's debut as 'excellent' after the Australian helped seal third spot for the club at the end of the regular Super League season.
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Mata’utia, 27, joined from financially-crippled Leigh Centurions last week and immediately proved his worth with an impressive showing in yesterday’s 52-24 win at Widnes Vikings.

Although signed as a full-back, he started at centre and showed plenty of class before limping off midway through the second period with cramp.

Powell said: “I thought he was excellent.

Delighted Castleford Tigers coach, Daryl Powell. PIC: Matthew MerrickDelighted Castleford Tigers coach, Daryl Powell. PIC: Matthew Merrick
Delighted Castleford Tigers coach, Daryl Powell. PIC: Matthew Merrick
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“He was strong in the centre, beat people, has got a good off-load and a right foot step that’s really strong.

“He just looks like he’s difficult to handle – he got us moving with some fast ruck speed – and I think he’ll be a really good signing for us.”

But Powell also praised Mata’utia’s fellow Samoa international Quentin Laulu Togaga’e who retained the full-back role and scored two tries during the rout.

“I thought Q was great,” he said.

New recruit, Peter Mata'utia, went well on debut for Cas at Widnes. PIC: Matthew MerrickNew recruit, Peter Mata'utia, went well on debut for Cas at Widnes. PIC: Matthew Merrick
New recruit, Peter Mata'utia, went well on debut for Cas at Widnes. PIC: Matthew Merrick

“He had a tough message during the week – we got Pete in, another full-back – but he handled it really well, very mature, and went really well today.”

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Castleford initially trailed 12-4 but turned on the style with four back-to-back tries in just seven minutes to leave bottom-placed Widnes destined for a 16th successive Super League loss.

“We didn’t start great and didn’t finish great but in between I thought there was some outstanding rugby league played,” said Powell.

“I was really pleased. For us to finish third after the regular rounds after what’s happened to us this year is an outstanding effort from the boys.

Widnes coach, Francis Cummins. PIC: Matthew MerrickWidnes coach, Francis Cummins. PIC: Matthew Merrick
Widnes coach, Francis Cummins. PIC: Matthew Merrick

“They have four days off now and deserve a few beers.”

Widnes boss Francis Cummins said: “There was a 10 minute spell when we just didn’t touch the ball.

“You could see Cas’ quality, but we have to be better than that.

“Fortunately we’re not playing them every week (in the Qualifiers).”