Americas Rugby News Rugby news from across the Americas!
Four players have extended their stay with the Houston SaberCats by another year. The signatures of front rowers Axel Zapata and Pono Davis, second row Siaosi Mahoni, and versatile back Robbie Povey were confirmed by their representative agency on social media.
Zapata was a late arrival in 2022, giving the club two Argentine hookers along with Diego Fortuny. The 29-year-old managed four replacement appearances behind incumbent captain Dean Muir. He has previously represented the Argentina XV.
Davis, 25, spent the off-season playing with the American Raptors. The heavyweight tighthead prop made a positive impression in his first campaign with the Cats, playing 8 matches as a reserve.
Mahoni made a significant impact after making the move from San Diego. The 6’8″ (2.03m) lock played 11 games, all but one starts, before joining the US Eagles for their World Cup Qualifiers in July and November. He celebrates his 26th birthday later this month.
Povey also featured on the international stage, starting both tests for Canada on their Amsterdam tour. The 26-year-old played in 13 matches during his second season in Houston. He gives the Cats an experienced goal-kicking option who is equally comfortable at flyhalf or fullback.
Meanwhile Will Crawford has left the club after making 14 appearances across two seasons. The 29-year-old lock or loose forward confirmed on social media that he will be suiting up for the American Raptors in Super Rugby Americas.
