London Scottish can announce that fly-half Phil Godman is to depart London Scottish and join Newcastle Falcons. Scottish have also signed fly-halves Lee Millar from Gala and Dan Newton from Scarlets.
Godman, a 23-time Scotland international, arrived at the Richmond Athletic Ground last summer from Edinburgh Rugby and has played a key role in the side’s second season in the RFU Championship, appearing in 23 matches in both the league and the British and Irish Cup.
He has been a regular starter in the fly-half role and he scored a try in his first appearance, coming off the bench against Doncaster in September. He also kicked a dramatic last minute penalty to defeat Cornish Pirates at the Athletic Ground in October in one of his first starts for the Club.
Director of Rugby Simon Amor: “We're obviously sad to be losing a player of Phil's ability and character. He has had a positive influence on the entire squad both on and off the field this season. We thank him for his contributions to the team and we wish him all the best for the next stage in his career.”
Scottish have moved to replace Godman by signing both Millar and Newton. 21 year old Millar will make the move to London having kicked over 300 points in the RBS Premier One competition in Scotland this season. He starred in Gala’s victory over Scottish at Netherdale in the British and Irish Cup in October 2012 and is a product of Moray RFC in Elgin.
He has spent three years developing his game at Gala and was a key figure in helping the club return to the top flight in Scotland. He has also represented the Scotland Club international side. His primary position is fly-half but Millar also offers a sound option at centre and full-back and his versatility will see him add plenty to an exciting looking back line ahead of the 2013-14 RFU Championship season.
Scottish have also added 23 year old Newton to their ranks. The Carmarthen-born fly-half has played eight times for the Scarlets this season, in both the RaboDirect Pro 12 competition and the Heineken Cup. He has been with the Scarlets since 2008 and has made 30 appearances for them since.
The Welshman made his league debut in 2009 against Connacht, scoring a conversion. He is a former pupil of Ysgol Gyfun Dyffryn Tâf in Whitland and has previously played rugby for Whitland RFC and Llanelli RFC. He can play at both fly-half as well as full-back.
