NRL: Lillyman re-signs with Warriors

Jacob Lillyman of the Warriors is tackled. Photo / Getty Images

Queensland State of Origin rugby league forward Jacob Lillyman has signed a new deal with the Warriors which will keep him in Auckland until the end of the 2013 National Rugby League season.

Second rower Ukuma Ta'ai, the versatile Isaac John and hooker Alehana Mara have also signed new contracts with the club.

The 27-year-old Lillyman, who is in his third season with the Warriors, made his fifth appearance for Queenlsand in their 16-12 win over New South Wales in the opening match of the State of Origin series in Brisbane on Wednesday night in what was his first outing for the Maroons since 2008.

"It's been a huge week personally with the thrill of playing Origin football again and now having my future with the Warriors sorted out," he said.

"It was a massive honour to play for Queensland again after being out of Origin for a while and it was also fantastic to make the Maroons while playing for the Warriors.

"While I had a tough year in 2010 it has been a great move coming to Auckland. I've really enjoyed living here and this club is brilliant to be part of."

Ta'ai, who has played 36 NRL matches, and the 22-year-old John who can play both halfback and standoff have agreed one-year extensions while Mara and utility Pita Godinet have signed on to the end of the 2013 season.

It is the 23-year-old Godinet's second contract upgrade in a matter of months. Initially on a trial contract in the off-season, his form in the club's preseason trials earned him a one-year contract for 2011 which has now been extended to two years.

The Warriors also gave one-year deals to props James Gavet and Saulala Houma and to centres Ivan Penehe and Konrad Hurrell.

- NZPA