Eels snare Maitua, Webb
09/02/2010 08:29:46 AM
Parramatta have pulled off a major coup after securing the services of former representative stars Reni Maitua and Carl Webb for the next two NRL seasons.
Maitua's decision to return to the NRL is particularly significant, with the 28-year-old still serving a two-year suspension handed down last season after he tested positive to a performance-enhancing substance.
The 28-year-old, who joined Cronulla in 2009 after he was sacked by the Bulldogs for failing to attend training in December 2008, will be eligible to play for his new club at the end of May.
The serial bad boy managed 100 appearances in five seasons with the Bulldogs and was a member of the 2004 premiership-winning side.
He also has one Test cap on his resume having played for the Kangaroos in the 2006 Tri Nations tournament.
Meanwhile, Webb's arrival will help fill the void left by departing skipper Nathan Cayless.
The 29-year-old enforcer spent five seasons at the Broncos before moving to the Cowboys in 2005.
Webb is also a veteran of one Test appearance for the Kangaroos and has played 12 Origins for Queensland.
The veteran duo will add further starch to an already formidable Eels pack that includes Fuifui Moimoi, Tim Mannah, Nathan Hindmarsh, Justin Poore and Shane Shackleton.