Williams signs deal with Penrith

Unwanted South Sydney half Joe Williams has signed a one-year deal with rivals Penrith.

Williams, who was set to join league's player exodus to the northern hemisphere, will link with the Panthers when their 2008 pre-season gets underway in October. Penrith boss Michael Leary says ex-skipper Craig Gower's switch to rugby union with French side Bayonne freed up some room for Williams.

The talented 24-year-old was dropped to premier league mid-season before forcing his way back into the Rabbitohs side at five-eighth. He will wear the No.6 for the Rabbitohs in their qualifying final against Manly at Brookvale Oval on Saturday.