Teessider Ben Stevenson extends stay at Newcastle Falcons
Flying winger Ben Stevenson will be a Newcastle Falcons player for at least the next two seasons after agreeing a new contract with the Kingston Park club
The 22-year-old Teessider was at his try-scoring best during Saturday’s 52-27 home win over London Irish, rounding off a fantastic team move with the ruthless finishing ability which has seen him scoring 12 times in his 36 first-team outings.
A graduate of the Falcons’ academy who has scored four tries in 13 Premiership games this season, Stevenson spoke of his delight at renewing terms for another two years.
“It was an easy decision for me,” said the Durham University graduate, who can also play in the centres.
“I’ve had a lot of Premiership exposure this season, I’ve really enjoyed it and it was just a total no-brainer for me to sign here again.
“As a North East lad I’m proud to represent my local Premiership club, and that means a lot to me.
“We’ve had some good results at times this season, and while everyone acknowledges we can still improve I think we’ve got a great foundation at the Falcons to make that progression.
“I’m settled in the area, we’ve just bought a house here and from whichever angle you look at it, this just seemed like the obvious decision.”
Director of rugby Dean Richards was equally enthused to have secured the signature of one of his brightest young stars, saying: “Ben is a really important player for us.
“We want to keep the best young local talent here and make them a central part of our long-term future, and Ben is a great example of that.
“He continues to work really hard at his game, he’s an outstanding finisher and someone who contributes a lot to our play.
“People around the circuit are finally starting to switch on to how good he actually is, and from our side it’s great news that he’ll be staying here with us to continue that good work.”