Vipers sign Slovenian marksman

Jun 24 2009 The Journal

NEWCASTLE Vipers have signed Slovenian Matic Kralj as they continue to rebuild their forward line in readiness for next season.

The Vipers announced the 26-year-old winger as the latest addition to their roster after agreeing terms with the Maribor attacker yesterday.

Kralj finished the second top scorer in the Slovenian league last year, racking up 65 points from 34 games to help Maribor to second place in the league and has been described as a “potential fans’ favourite” by Vipers head coach Rob Wilson.

He was courted by several Elite League teams but the Vipers chief acted quickly to complete a deal for the hard-working attacker, and is delighted with another bit of astute business.

Wilson said: “Matic was on the radar of a couple of other UK clubs, and I’m delighted we’ve managed to get his signature.

“He has shown throughout his career that he can put up the numbers in the goals column, but he also plays hard and isn’t afraid to do the dirty work in front of the net and in the corners.

“Having taken references from players and coaches, I think the best comparison I can make is Matus Petricko. Like Petricko, Matic has good size and uses it to his advantage, and he also knows where the goal is.

“I think he can be a fan favourite in Newcastle.”

Wilson has completely overhauled his forward line after last season’s disappointment, and Krajl is just one of several new attacking additions.

The Vipers have already signed American forward Jason Tejchma, Todd Griffith and Canadian Mike Berry as they look to add more mettle up front.

Kralj is set to join up with his new team-mates on Tyneside on 23 August at the start of Vipers’ two week training camp.

Their pre-season preparations also include an exhibition game against Sheffield Steelers on 30 August at Metro Radio Arena, and another game away to Elite League opposition, with the opponents set to be announced later in the summer.