Western United have significantly strengthened their goalkeeping stocks with the signature of Hillary Beall on loan from National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Racing Louisville FC.
Beall returns to Western for a second season after sweeping the accolades in 2022-23, highlighted by the Liberty A-League Golden Glove as the competition’s best-performing goalkeeper.
Beall also won Save of the Year honours, was named Liberty A-League Player of the Month in January and February, and won Western’s Player of the Year award at the end of the season.
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It’s a major coup for Western to regain the services of a player who served as a vice-captain through the club’s inaugural Liberty A-League season; Western finished second in 2022-23 and made it to the Grand Final, where defeat to Sydney FC left Mark Torcaso’s side desperate to claim silverware in the new campaign.
“It was an incredible season we had in our first year. We fell short twice of some hardware, so I think that is definitely something I am coming back for – to win a Championship,” said Beall on return to Western.
“I really enjoyed my time at Western so I am really grateful the Club is bringing me back in with the girls.
“Obviously the main goal is to win a Championship. Coming back though, I now have two years as a pro under my belt and I have found myself and my confidence, so I will bring that to the group.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato added: “Hillary was the best goalkeeper in the competition last season and we are delighted to have her return and be a key part of our roster again.
“Her accolades and awards spoke to the quality she brought on the pitch and it was important for us to bring that back into our squad as we continue to aim high in the Liberty A-League.”
Beall has returned to training with Western and could feature this Sunday against Melbourne City at City Vista Pavilion and Sports Field.
