Darlington Mowden Park are delighted to announce the signings of Scott Westwood, Max Pepper and Elia Biasuzzi ahead of the 2019/20 National One season. The three new signings have been a part of the club’s pre-season preparations and are eligible for selection for tomorrow’s pre-season game against Tynedale (3pm Kick Off).

Scott Westwood joins the club having made a handful of appearances at the end of last season. The prop made his 1st XV debut against Plymouth back in March, and the front rower was excited to be singing up for the upcoming season: “I’m really happy to be joining the team and looking forward to a good season ahead with the lads.”
“I decided to join DMP as the team has a good atmosphere and is striving for success, so I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”

The 30 year-old, who has represented the Army in both union and league, will add further depth to the Mowden front row. Head Coach Garry Law was pleased with the latest addition to his pack: “Scott joined up with us at the end of last season having been placed in Newcastle with the Army. He is someone we want to try and work with, and get him up to speed to be able to perform at Nat 1. His rugby will be working around his military commitments so he may not be available every week.”

Young scrum half Max Pepper joins following a spell with the Newcastle Falcons Academy. The 18 year-old former Barnard Castle student first joined up with the squad at the end of the 2018/19 season, and was looking forward to the season ahead: “I’m really excited to be joining DMP as it’s a step up from junior rugby.”

Head Coach Law commented: “Max is a young local lad who recently came through the Falcons Academy. Again Max came down at the end of last season and has now attended a full preseason and is getting better each week. He will bring an added competition to the scrum half shirt.”

Versatile back Elia Biasuzzi signs from Italian side San Dona, bringing a wealth of experience to the Mowden backline. The 28 year-old has had previous club stints in both Australia and his native Italy, and he was excited for his latest challenge in England: “First of all I'd like to thank Garry and DMP for this opportunity. I'm really happy and excited to join DMP.”

“I wanted to join DMP because I heard a lot about the club’s ambition. I really want to improve myself both as a professional player but also on a personal level and I am sure that playing with DMP will be a great experience for me, and there will be lot of fun watching us playing!”

Law added: “Elia has played in top league in Italy for quite a few years and approached as he wanted to try his hand at a different style of rugby and experience living abroad. He is a utility back and from what we've seen is very capable at several positions. Again he will strengthen the squad and help drive the in house competition for places.”

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