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David Tameilau won’t be moving to the Top 14 after all, at least not next season. According to French reports the US Eagles international has signed a two-year contract extension with Pro D2 side Narbonne. Tameilau joined the team in late October, initially signing as a medical joker. He has made an immediate impact, starting in eight games and becoming the leading ball carrier for the side, playing both at lock and his preferred no8 position.
After making his test debut in the 2016 Americas Rugby Championship, Tameilau faded from the limelight when he was dropped by Eagles coach John Mitchell and then sputtered somewhat in the PRO Rugby season amidst great expectations. An announced contract with Newcastle Falcons fell through and he looked to be in limbo before being handed a lifeline by Narbonne. Tameilau is now back in Eagles contention and has been included in the squad for the 2017 ARC.
Narbonne are currently in 12th spot in the French second division, 19 points back of league leaders Oyonnax and 13 points shy of playoff contention. The club has undergone considerable restructuring off the field in recent months with former president Rocky Elsom and head coach Justin Harrison now departed and several players discarded to reduce financial strain. Former New Zealand All Blacks test regulars Piri Weepu and Neemia Tialata are among those currently employed by the club.
