12th July 2005
Issued on behalf of Bristol Rugby
Bristol Head Coach Richard Hill continued to strengthen his playing squad for the 2005-6 season with the signings of Samoan wingers Brian Lima and David Lemi today.
Of the two, Lima is the better known in world rugby terms having made his debut for Western Samoa back in 1990 and featured in the famous World Cup win over Wales in 1991. He has earned the memorable nickname of "The Chiropractor" for his shuddering hits in defence.
He has been described as the best Samoan rugby player of all time and is currently on international duty as Manu Samoa take on Tonga and Fiji.
Most recently with Munster, he has also played for Auckland Blues and in Japan. The 33 year old has signed a two year deal with Bristol.
David Lemi has been a major presence in the IRB World Sevens Series in recent years. Indeed, he has been the Series' top try scorer for the past two seasons and the top points scorer overall this season.
He was also named as the captain of the Sevens team in April of this year.
Aged 23, Lemi is also a Samoan international and was named in the 22 to face Fiji last weekend. He has signed a one year contract.
Hill was delighted to reveal the signings on Tuesday morning:
"Brian Lima will bring a host of international experience to our backline. He will also be a massive physical presence."
"David Lemi is less well known but he is a very exciting talent. He's been a star of the World Sevens Series in the past couple of years and has been a prolific try scorer."
"He's predominantly a winger but is also capable of filling in at scrum half. We came across him at the recent Safari Sevens in Kenya and he really caught my eye. I'm delighted that he's agreed to join Bristol."
"I think that we've captured the best in Samoan backline talent with the experience and class of Brian Lima and the talent and potential of David Lemi."
Brian Lima
Position: Wing
Born: 25 January 1972
Height: 182cm
Weight: 97kg
Manu Samoa Debut: 1990
Samoa Sevens Debut: 1990
David Lemi
Position: Wing
Born: 10 February 1982
Height: 174cm
Weight: 75kg
Manu Samoa Debut: 2004
Samoa Sevens Debut: 2002
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