Matthews agrees new deal with Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow Warriors have retained the services of Scottish-qualified hooker Johnny Matthews ahead of the 2022/23 season, after the front-rower agreed to extend his contract with the Scotstoun side.

Having initially linked up with the club on a short-term contract ahead of the 2019/20 campaign, the 28-year-old has become an integral member of the squad under Head Coach Danny Wilson in recent seasons.

A dynamic ball-carrying presence in the front-row, Matthews’ work at the set-piece has also contributed towards Glasgow’s league-leading lineout success rate in the United Rugby Championship so far this season.

The hooker has also possessed a keen nose for the try-line throughout his rugby career to date; 29 tries in 26 matches for Sedgley Park in the 2016/17 campaign brought him to the attention of Boroughmuir, for whom he subsequently topped the Scottish Premiership try-scoring charts with 19 tries in 16 outings across the 2018/19 season before representing Boroughmuir Bears in the 2020 FOSROC Super6.

His try-scoring knack has also transferred to the professional arena, with Matthews crossing for six tries in 30 appearances for Glasgow Warriors.

Four of those scores have come this season, including a memorable score in the final minute of December’s 22-7 win over Exeter at Scotstoun.

Born in Liverpool, Matthews qualifies for Scotland courtesy of his Glaswegian mother and has represented both Scotland U18 and Scotland Club XV.

Winner of the McCrea Financial Services Warrior of the Month award for September 2021, the hooker also holds the role of Commercial Manager at FOSROC Super6 side Watsonians alongside his Glasgow Warriors playing commitments.

He joins fellow front-rowers Enrique Pieretto and Murphy Walker, as well as Scotland internationals Matt Fagerson, Kyle Steyn, Ali Price and Ross Thompson, in committing his future to the Warriors ahead of the new season.

“I’m loving my time with Glasgow, and I’m really happy to re-sign with the club,” a smiling Matthews told glasgowwarriors.org.

“It’s a great place to play rugby. This season we’ve really developed and added to the blueprint and DNA of how we want to play, and you can see that from our league position and some of our performances this year.

“We’ve got a great culture, and I think with this group we’re building towards something. Everyone here is mates and we’ve now got some great depth across the park.

“I’m excited for what’s ahead and I’m looking forward to seeing how far we can go this season and for the future.”

Head Coach Danny Wilson added: “Johnny has been a key member of our squad this season and we’re delighted to secure his services for the future.

“After working hard during the off-season and pre-season, his game has taken massive steps forward and he’s been a constant performer for us.

“We’re looking forward to seeing more of him in a Warriors jersey.”

? Our 1872 Cup clash with Edinburgh at Scotstoun is now currently sold out!

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— Glasgow Warriors (@GlasgowWarriors) February 24, 2022