Latest NewsOtto Signs For Bristol Rugby
Samoan international centre puts pen to paper
Bristol Rugby are delighted to announce the signing of Samoan international Fautua Otto ahead of the 2011/12 season.
The 25 year-old, equally adept at centre or wing, has made five appearances for the Samoan Test side. Nicknamed “Tua”, Otto made his international debut against Tonga in June 2010 and featured against England at Twickenham during the Investec international in November last year, scoring a last-minute try in a 26-13 defeat.
Otto shone during the 2010 IRB World 7’s Series, scoring 18 tries as Samoa claimed their first ever World title. He is strongly in contention for a place in Samoa’s World Cup squad.
Regarded for his devastating pace and strong defence, Otto is also a right-footed kicker - boasting an 80% success rate at goal. Head Coach Liam Middleton has been pursuing the utility back for several months and is pleased to have finally secured his signature.
He said: “I’ve followed Tua on the World Sevens Series for a few years. He has been an instrumental part of a very successful Samoan Sevens side, so when we started to look for an outside centre, he was my first target. It is very likely that he will go to the World Cup in New Zealand, so we won’t have him for first month of the season. However, he will bring his World Cup experience to Bristol when he returns in October and that will be valuable to us."
Fautua Otto's agent Martin Longden of MC Sports said: "Our client understands and respects the history of Bristol Rugby Club. He is a leading player on the world scene and he is excited to have signed and will be joining after the World Cup. Both Fautua and I have been impressed with the ambition and vision of Liam Middleton. Our client is looking forward to achieving success with Bristol."
