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Rugby League

Bradford seal deal for Manly legend Menzies

17/07/2008

Bradford Bulls have announced the signing of veteran utility forward Steve Menzies on a one-year contract from NRL side Manly Sea Eagles.

The 34-year-old will arrive at Odsal for the 2009 Super League season after the Bulls fought off competition from a number of other clubs for the highly-rated Australian.

Menzies is second on the all-time appearance list and the all-time try-scorers list in Australian rugby league, having crossed the whitewash 171 times in 339 games.

And despite admitting in the past that it would be a wrench to leave Manly - the only senior club he has ever played for – Menzies said he could not turn down the "great experience" he believes Bradford can offer him.

"I have always wanted to play over in the UK and when the opportunity came along to do that with Bradford - one of the strongest clubs - I grabbed it," he said.

"I am now looking forward to getting over there and being a part of the club.

"I want to win trophies with the Bulls and [head coach] Steve McNamara and hopefully I can lend a little experience and knowledge to help us do that."

McNamara himself said he is "absolutely delighted" to have persuaded Menzies to leave his hometown club and take on a new challenge.

"He is at the opposite end of the scale as regards to age but he is as young and enthusiastic as the four youngsters we have just re-signed," McNamara explained.

"He is an absolute legend of the game in Australia, a proven winner who, despite his age, is still playing week in and week out for the top side in the NRL competition, putting in outstanding performances and he will be a huge asset for this organisation both on and off the field and certainly with regards to the young players who will undoubtedly learn from his experience.

"Steve is a quality signing and a really exciting capture. He has achieved so much in the game and is a true great who offers so much.

"He's obviously a legendary try-scorer but also a mean defender, totally dedicated, professional and mentally tough. We need those sorts of people at Bradford and I'm thrilled Steve has decided to join us here for next year."