Darlington Mowden Park are delighted to announce the signings of front row pair Connor Ward and Brendan Asomua-Goodman ahead of the 2019/20 National One season. The pair will join up with the rest of the DMP squad when pre-season training gets underway next month.

Prop Connor Ward signs from Northern Division side Harrogate, having helped them to a third placed finish this season. The 24 year-old, who also has representative honours for Yorkshire, has played the majority of the season at tighthead but can cover both sides of the scrum. Ahead of his switch to the Arena, Ward commented: “I'm so excited to have signed after speaking with Gary and knowing his plans for next season. I can’t wait to get involved and push myself at a higher level in National One but also to help the club reach the goals for the season.”

Mowden Park Head Coach Garry Law was pleased with the latest addition to his squad: “Connor has shown to be a consistent performer in the front row at Harrogate for a few seasons now. He is now looking to make the step up and progress his rugby at Mowden. He’s hungry to improve and to also earn his place in the starting team. He is bringing real competition for places which is only a good thing for the squad as a whole.”

Joining Ward in making the move to Mowden Park is Kiwi Hooker Brendan Asomua-Goodman. The 22 year-old joins the club from Spanish Premiership side VRAC, having previously represented Tasman in the Mitre 10 Cup in his native New Zealand. Speaking ahead of his move to the UK, he said: “I’m really excited about joining the club this year, and what really appealed to me signing here was the clubs ambition for higher honours. In the direction the club is going, I’m excited to be a part of it, and made it a straightforward decision in signing here. From what I’ve heard and seen so far, the club has a great environment and will definitely help my development as a player and as an individual.”

Garry Law was equally delighted to be adding further front row options to his squad: “Again Brendan will bring real competition for the Hooker shirt next season, something we maybe didn't have last for large parts last season. He gets through a load of work in attack and has a fair turn of pace to match. The battle between Nelson and Goodman for the starts should be good to watch.”

Connor and Brendan have signed up for 2019/20 – Have you? You can now join the Mowden Family and purchase your Mowden Memberships online by clicking here.