After an impressive nine-game run with the province, Samoan-born flanker Ray Ofisa has signed a two-year extension to his contract with Connacht.

Openside Ofisa has been in outstanding form since his arriving in the west of Ireland in October, scoring two tries in seven Magners League appearances. He also drew plaudits for his sportsmanship when he checked on the injured Barry Murphy in last weekend's league encounter with Munster.

Connacht coach Michael Bradley reckons the 26-year-old has been the 'find of the season' for the westerners and they have been quick in working out a deal that will keep him in Galway until at least the summer of 2009.

Bradley admitted: "He has added a new dimension to our play. Ray has settled in very quickly and we are delighted that he will be with us for at least two more seasons after this one. He is a quality player.

"There is a lot of competition in our back row now. Ray got his chance when Matt Lacey got injured and Matt is now playing very well for Galwegians and putting Ray under pressure - that's the sort of competition you want.

"We're putting our squad together for next season and beyond and expect to be making a few more announcements in the coming weeks," he added.

Ofisa, who made his debut for Connacht against Ulster in October, moved to New Zealand from Samoa when he was 19 in a bid to further his rugby career.

He commented: "After school in New Zealand I played for the Colts Under-21 team in Otago, before joining North Otago. I have enjoyed my rugby since coming to Connacht and am looking forward to the next few seasons here."