Oldham Secure Signing of Featherstone’s Papua New Guinea Star McKenzie Yei
Ambitious League 1 outfit Oldham have bolstered their squad with the signing of Papua New Guinea powerhouse McKenzie Yei. The 26-year-old prop has joined the Roughyeds on a deal running until the end of the 2025 season, reuniting with former Featherstone Rovers boss Sean Long.
Long was the driving force behind Yei’s move to the British game, with the Mount Hagen native linking up with Featherstone ahead of the 2022 season. However, following Long’s departure from Post Office Road last August, Yei made just 20 appearances for the West Yorkshire club before being released earlier this month.
“I’m really happy to be here, especially to be back with Longy. The boys and coaching staff have been really welcoming. To be honest, I thought I would be going home but Longy spoke to me and gave me the opportunity so I am really grateful and really happy.”
Fitness issues were cited as the primary reason for Yei’s Featherstone exit, but the four-time Kumuls international hasn’t had to wait long to secure a new opportunity. Oldham, who have won all four of their league games so far this year, have handed Yei a chance to shine in the third tier under the guidance of Long.
The powerful forward, who is currently sidelined through injury and serving a four-game suspension, is eager to get back on the field and contribute to Oldham’s promotion push. He commented:
“I run hard and tackle hard, that is me. I can’t wait to get back on the field and I will give my best with the club who has given me this opportunity.”
Roughyeds head coach Long, who brought Yei over to the UK after his exploits with the PNG Hunters and Central Queensland Capras, is confident the Papua New Guinean will be a valuable addition to his squad. “He is a really genuine, good bloke with no frills. He’s just a wrecking ball, and a genuinely nice person who fits our DNA as a club,” Long said.
With Yei’s arrival, Oldham continue to attract top-tier talent as they bid to restore their glory days in the third division of English rugby league.
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