Chiefs retain Anscombe and Co.

The Chiefs have confirmed that utility back Gareth Anscombe and five other young players have signed new contracts with the Waikato franchise.

Anscombe and prop Ben Tameifuna have recommitted until 2014 while back, Andrew Horrell, hooker Rhys Marshall, prop Pauliasi Manu and lock Michael Fitzgerald have all re-signed until 2015.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said: "They are all good players but more importantly, good men.  We've been really impressed with the contribution these men have made to our club and are rapt they are committing beyond this year."

Popular prop Ben Tameifuna is proud to call Chiefs country home.

"The coaching and the support the Chiefs environment provides is the best I have come across and they know how to get the best out of their players," said Tameifuna.

Gareth Anscombe is grateful for the faith the defending champions have shown in him and New Zealand's Super Rugby top point scorer has excelled in the Chiefs environment.

The flyhalf who has spent much of the season playing out of position at fullback is rapt to have been offered a contract. "I am really enjoying the culture and the challenging environment which I believed has really helped grow my game and my confidence," said Anscombe.

The Chiefs snapped up former NZ Under-20s hooker Rhys Marshall and identified the 20-year-old as being a player with great potential.  Due to injury Marshall was given his first start prior to playing any National Provincial Championship matches and he reveled in the game time he has received this year.  

The Smedly Agricultural College graduate said: "The culture, the coaching staff and the opportunities I have already been given were key factors in my decision."