New Zealand striker Mata signs for Sligo Rovers

Sligo Rovers have signed striker Max Mata from US outfit Real Monarchs for the 2022 season.

Mata, 21, has been capped by New Zealand and has previous experience in Europe with Swiss side Grasshopper and a loan spell with Estonian outfit Nomme Kalju.

The striker had a prolific run of form with Kalju, scoring nine times in 11 league starts and playing in their Europa League qualifier against Celtic.

His overall record was 12 goals in 20 appearances. During that spell he was a team-mate of former Rovers player Sander Puri.

Having shone at academy level in New Zealand as a youngster, he joined Wellington Phoenix where his form in the reserve league and appearing in the FIFA Under-20 World Cup with New Zealand led to an initial move to Grasshopper.

At 20 he joined the Monarchs in the USL Championship, the second tier of the US, in 2021 and scored twice in 11 starts.

His international debut came against Lithuania as he appeared as a substitute along with recent Rovers signing Nando Pijnaker.

Mata said: "I'm very happy to join Sligo Rovers. When the chance came up I didn’t have to think long about it. I want to play games and I want to score goals and Ireland was very appealing. I’ve played in Europe before and done well and I definitely think I can do it again.

"I enjoyed the experience in America last season, with a regret of not playing as much as I would have liked. I’m very motivated to come to Sligo, play games and score goals.

"I don’t think integration will be a problem being an English-speaking country. I’m excited to experience the League of Ireland and play here.

"It’s just a matter of being focused and I’ll be totally committed to succeeding here.

"Sligo Rovers have been doing well in Ireland, I’ve spoken with the coach about