Falcons keep their Kiwi
Newcastle Falcons have announced that New Zealander Jimmy Gopperth has signed a three-year contract extension at Kingston Park.
Gopperth, 28, who has scooped the Premiership Golden Boot award for the last two seasons running, joined the Falcons in 2009 from the Blues and North Harbour.
In just his first campaign with the northeasterners, the Kiwi goal-kicking sensation took the Premiership scene by storm, finishing the season as top points scorer with an incredible 219 points in 21 appearances.
Not content with being a one hit wonder, the New Plymouth-born flyhalf followed this up with an impressive second term, picking up the Golden Boot accolade once again as well as lifting the Falcons Players' Player award.
"My family and I are delighted to have been given the opportunity to extend my contract at the Newcastle Falcons," said a delighted Gopperth.
He added: "I have been humbled by the offers from other clubs, however I feel that I have unfinished business here. Furthermore I very much want to be part of what I believe is going to be an amazing journey here at Newcastle.
"I have a lot of respect for club owner Semore Kurdi, he is not a man of many words but his ambition, drive and belief in this club is clear for all to see.
"I wholeheartedly believe that we have a great squad here. The team environment is second to none and I am excited to see what we as a team can produce going forward."
Gopperth's decision to put pen to paper on a new deal rounds off a positive week for the Tyneside club, who under new coaches are gearing up to ignite their fight-back and secure their top-flight status.
This week saw former England coach John Wells added to the new-look Newcastle coaching team just hours after Gary Gold's rejuvenated Falcons side put Sale Sharks to the sword with a comprehensive 37-7 victory in the LV= Cup.
Director of rugby Gary Gold said: "I am extremely delighted that Jimmy has committed his future to the club and it is an incredibly strong sign of intent.
"I know full-well that there were a host of other clubs after his signature. He is an internationally renowned player who has made his intentions clearly known and it is a massive step forward for the club.
"I think you are going to see a couple more talented Falcons players signing new deals in the next few weeks too.
"Semore and chief executive Dave Bell have done a great job in terms of keeping the group of players together."
Club owner Semore Kurdi said: "Jimmy is a world class player who brings talent, skills and leadership that the club can only benefit from. We are delighted to have him in our squad."