League: Puletua re-signs with Panthers

Kiwis second rower Tony Puletua today quashed speculation about his future at the Penrith Panthers by signing for the National Rugby League (NRL) club for another four seasons.

Puletua accepted a pay cut to remain at the Panthers when he last re-signed after they collected the wooden spoon in 2001 and underlined his loyalty to the 2003 grand final winners.

"I couldn't really see myself playing for any other club in the NRL," said Puletua, who made his first grade debut in 1997.

"I would like to be a one-club man -- you don't get too many of them these days. It would be awesome to finish my career at the Panthers.

"The thought of going to England came to mind but I just thought it would be hard for my family -- my wife (Joan) and son (Tyler).

"Hopefully the opportunity will come up later when I'm done here at Penrith."

The new deal will tie the 13-test international to the Panthers until the end of 2009, by which time he will be 30.

- NZPA