Live

Repeat: Off The Ball

02:00 AM-05:00 AM

Repeat: Off The Ball
Advertisement
Soccer

Sligo Rovers confirm Max Mata arrival

Shelbourne have also added Kiwi Adam Thomas to their squad.



Sligo Rovers confirm Max Mata...
Soccer

Sligo Rovers confirm Max Mata arrival

Sligo Rovers have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of striker Max Mata. 

The New Zealand native - who has one cap for his country at senior level - moves to the North West from Real Monarchs in the US.

Mata (21) will help add depth in an attack for Liam Buckley, as Rovers attempt to replace Johnny Kenny.

He previously played for Swiss side Grasshopper and also featured for Estonia's Nomme Kalju.

Mata links up with a former teammate at the Showgrounds, having previously played with Nando Pijnaker in Switzerland and at international level.

“I’m very happy to join Sligo Rovers," Mata said.

"When the chance came up I didn’t have to think long about it. I want to play games and I want to score goals and Ireland was very appealing.

"I’ve played in Europe before and done well and I definitely think I can do it again."

Bit O'Red manager Buckley said: “We’re delighted to get Max.

"He’s another really good footballer and a forward player to compliment Aidan Keena, Jordan Hamilton and Cillian Heaney who has done well this pre-season.

“He’s done well in Europe beforehand.

"From a career point of view he’s on the up and we can see how driven he is and how much he wants to do well in the game."

Up first for Sligo Rovers in the new SSE Airtricity League Premier Division season is Bohemians on Saturday evening.

Meanwhile, Shelbourne have also added a player from New Zealand.

Defender Adam Thomas has joined Damien Duff's squad ahead of the new season.

He also has international experience, having played for the Kiwis at the 2012 Olympics.

“Training has been class with the standards really high along with the intensity and focus on position which I have really enjoyed," Thomas said.

Duff says he's pleased to add the 29-year-old to their squad.

"He has trained really well with us and has settled brilliantly with the squad.

"He has a lot of quality and has the versatility to play many positions.

"He is a great addition to the group”

Shels host St Pats in their first Premier Division match of the season on Friday.

Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!

Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.


Read more about

Adam Thomas Liam Buckley Max Mata Shelbourne Sligo Rovers