TONGAN international rugby player Manu Tuip-ulotu has caused a storm by leaving Pontypool to join Welsh Premier Div-ision rivals Ebbw Vale.

It is less than a week since the back row player returned to Wales from Tonga with his new bride Atu.

The trip home for his wedding was thanks to a £600 donation from Pontypool baggage man Terry Simons and his wife Jane and £200 from the supporters' 100 Club.

This was because Tuipulotu, like most of the Pontypool players, had not received any wages since February from now deposed Pontypool owner Bob Jude.

Now his decision to join Ebbw Vale has resulted in Simons complaining of a "real kick in the teeth" and Pontypool coach Steve Jones accusing him of letting his nation down.

Jones has also had a go at Ebbw Vale for a lack of honour in targeting their players at a time when the club are struggling.

"Tongan people are well respected and well mannered but by their actions (Kuli Faletau has also rejoined Vale from Pontypool) these two players have let their nation down," said Jones.

"Terry Simons and his wife have spent a lot of money on them and other Tongans and helped ensure Manu's wedding went ahead, yet he did not have the decency to tell them of his plans.

"Only this week Jane spent another £10 to fill the player's car up with petrol and she has been in tears over this.

"It is sad to hear about the move from other parties. It reflects on the players that they did not have the decency to tell us first.

"What has happened will leave a sour taste with our supporters."

Jones added: "This is the third or fourth time Ebbw Vale have targeted players of ours at a time when we are in trouble. I thought there was more honour between clubs."

Terry Simons commented: "My wife seems quite traumatised over all this. We feel really let down. We gave Manu the money in good faith to help him out and then he goes and does this.

"It's a real kick in the teeth and to say I'm upset is an understatement."

Tuipulotu told the Argus: "I'm very sad if my decision spoils our relationship. I have great respect for Terry and Jane, they are real friends and I will never forget what they have done for me and my fellow Tongans.

"I will pay them back the money.

"I feel the Ebbw Vale move offers better security for me and my wife.

"I spent much of last season on the bench at Pontypool and I was not paid at the end of the season and I feel it best to make a fresh start.

"I feel guilty for Terry and Jane and say sorry to the Pontypool fans if they feel I have let them down."

Ebbw Vale coach Gareth Nicholas said: "I don't want to get involved in a slanging match with Pontypool. I respect Steve greatly. He has helped me in the past.

"I also have a lot of sympathy for him in his predicament. Ebbw Vale were in the same position a month ago, trying to build a team and having players taken away.

"But nobody's at fault here. It's one massive bun fight out there. You have to grab who you can when you can.

"In the main Pontypool players contacted us because of the uncertainty at their club. I don't think blame can be attached to Ebbw Vale over this."