Richard Graham, the coach of Western Force, is looking to strengthen the club’s Super Rugby backs by presenting a short-term deal to Queensland fly half Matt Brandon.
On Tuesday morning, the 24-year-old arrived in Perth and participated in an afternoon training session.
Brandon will have additional chances to get acquainted with the game plan on Thursday, as well as during the captain’s run the next day, before he takes a spot on the bench against the Blues on Saturday night.
Due to an elbow injury to Mitch Inman and Rory Sidey’s suspension from last weekend’s match with the Sharks, Brandon has been brought in on a four-week deal, as Graham found himself short of numbers among the backs. Currently, seven players in that category are unavailable.
Despite the quality of the club’s starters, which includes James O’Connor, Cameron Shepherd, Gene Fairbanks, and David Smith, Graham acknowledged the necessity of adding more support.
“With a relatively small squad size of 36 players, including four academy members, the seven injuries have created pressure on our backline resources and left us with limited options,” stated Graham.
“Matt has seen action in high-quality competitions like the Magners League and in Japan, and will bring those experiences to the Western Force.”
Brandon’s rugby journey has taken him around the world, starting in Ireland with Connacht before he joined former Force player Scott Staniforth at Yokogawa in the Japanese league.
Last year he returned to Australia and most recently played for the Reds’ 2nd XV against international teams such as Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa.
“It was a nice surprise to receive a call from Richard. Everything has unfolded very quickly, but I’m thankful and excited for the chance to join the club,” said Brandon.
“I have always aimed to play in Super Rugby, and I’m eager to learn from the coaching staff and the players here while also contributing my own skills.”
Though Brandon is currently signed on a short-term injury replacement contract, he can look to fellow Western Force team members Nathan Charles and Jono Jenkins, both of whom began at the club under similar circumstances last season before securing longer-term contracts.
“There is certainly a pathway that other players have taken, which instills confidence in the program,” Brandon commented.
“I’m looking to make a case for a longer contract and will do everything possible to support the club in the upcoming month.”
by Buford Balony
