Two Welsh stars with defender frightening 'genuine pace' extend stay at Bristol Bears

Bristol speedsters Mat Protheroe and Ryan Edwards have committed their futures to the club.

Both pen new one year deals as Pat Lam continues to build his exciting squad for the 2019/20 campaign.

One of the longest-serving members of the squad, Edwards made his debut in 2011, while Protheroe joined in 2017 ahead of the club’s promotion season.

Head coach Pat Lam said: “Mat [Protheroe] and Ryan [Edwards] are two young men with genuine pace that can frighten a defender.

“Ryan has developed into a consistent performer. He’s got a good attitude and has added real value to our game. Ryan knows the club and understands the direction we want to go.

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“Mat [Protheroe] has worked incredibly hard to come back from a long-term injury and, since then, he has integrated himself quickly into the Premiership squad.

“Mat’s an exciting player who can create something out of nothing. He’s a good fit for the system we play and we are excited about how he will continue to learn and grow his game.”

Edwards, who has made 84 appearances, scoring 30 tries, said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to be at Bristol for a long time and it’s a club that I have a close affinity to.

“The environment and team ethos that Pat Lam has created is the best I’ve experienced and I’m hugely excited about what this team can achieve.”

Protheroe, who has five tries in 20 appearances, added: “I love the style of rugby that the Bears play and it’s a privilege to be part of a group of lads that are all pulling in the right direction and are committed to helping the club achieve success.

“We know we have a huge opportunity over the next twelve months to really kick on and I’m determined to play my part and contribute to the vision.”