Brayley, who moved to the Llanelli Premiership side from Swansea at the end of last season, has been instrumental in the side’s table topping form, according to head coach Paul Fisher.
He said, “Matthew has been a real catalyst for our recent performances which have taken us to the top of the table. He has a good mix of skills as a 12, he is a powerful ball carrier but he plays with width too. He gets our outside backs moving and he’s also a good leader on and off the field. He has given our side a focal point and the dirction we needed so he certainly deserves this award and it’s great he has been recognised for the effort and commitment he has shown.”
Brayley, who was injured at the start of the season, is just pleased to be in the Llanelli side. He said, “I was on loan with Ammanford after picking up a groin strain and struggled to get back in the Llanelli side at the start of the season so I’m thrilled to be playing regular rugby in a winning Llanelli side.
“The club has big plans this season. Obviously we want to maintain our position at the top of the Principality Premiership table and we’d like to go as far as possible in the Cup too.
“We’ve got an experienced squad of players this season, and the coaches Paul Fisher and Vernon Cooper have brought in some new ideas which everyone has bought into.
“We’ve got a good way to go yet – if we lose a couple of games, our title hopes could diminish rapidly – but we are going out wanting to win every game at the moment which is enjoyable.
“It’s easy to play well when you’re on the front foot and we’re in the habit of winning at the moment which is a good position to be in.”
Matthew Brayley factfile
DoB: 08.09.81
Birthplace: Swansea
Club: Llanelli
Nickname: Brayls
Player most admired: Dan Carter
Sportsperson most admired: Joe Calzaghe
Biggest impact on career: My family, especially my two year old daughter Anya
Occupation: Family car sales and service station business
