Auckland FC striker, Max Mata has returned to Shrewsbury Town following his loan spell with the Black Knights.
Mata played 19 times for the club, making 11 starts, scoring twice and registering three assists.
The Auckland-born player was a big personality around the club and goes down in history as being part of the first ever New Zealand side to lift A-League silverware.
A mainstay of the squad for nearly the entire season, Max picked up substitute appearances at the start of the season before finding his feet with an impressive run of minutes, goals and assists at the turn of the year.
An unfortunate hamstring injury cut his season short, and he was unable to take part in either of the semi-final games against Melbourne Victory.
“It has been an incredible year in Auckland, one I’ll never forget,” says Mata.
“I am from Auckland so the ride we’ve had feels that little bit more enjoyable. Winning silverware, getting to lift the Plate in front of our fans, that was special.
“The support I’ve received over the past 12 months has meant so much to me. The Port, the families, the kids, the staff and my teammates. I’m really going to miss it. Thank you for everything. For all the good times and the memories.”
Max started his career at Onehunga Sports and spent as season at Eastern Suburbs before signing his first professional contract with Grasshoppers in Switzerland.
“He’s a great character, a good player and we’ll certainly miss him,” says head coach Steve Corica.
“He worked well alongside May. He was able to create chances and make space for his teammates. Shrewsbury is a good club with a reputation for developing talent. I am sure they will look after him there. We wish him all the best for the future, and he’ll always be welcome around the club.”
