Morgan Aquino and Leticia McKenna have become the second and third players recruited by Brisbane Roar from Perth Glory within one week, after the recruitment of former Perth defender Kim Carroll in early November.
Aquino, who has largely played back-up to Perth goalkeeper Eliza Campbell in recent seasons, joins midfielder McKenna and experienced defender Carroll in departing the West to join Jake Goodship’s Brisbane squad ahead of the 2020/21 Westfield W-League campaign.
As Aquino prepares to embark on a new exciting phase of her burgeoning career, the 19-year-old goalkeeper says it’s the right time to depart her home state for a fresh challenge in new surrounds.
“This opportunity opens up a new an environment and a new challenge for me,” Aquino told the club website.
“I’ve loved by time at Perth Glory, obviously being from Perth, but this is an opportunity for me to try something new and test myself.”
Brisbane Head Coach Goodship says acquiring the two Young Matildas brings a level of excitement to his squad, as he looks forward to seeing what they can provide to a Roar outfit desperate to make a Finals Series return in the 2020/21 Westfield W-League season.
“Morgan and Leticia are two terrific, exciting additions for our squad for the upcoming season,” Goodship said.
“Both players are just beginning their careers but they have experience well beyond their years and we’re excited about what they can bring to our squad this season.”
READ: All the signings ahead of the 2020/21 season
Victory squad bolstered by an American defender and a budding midfielder
Melbourne Victory Head Coach Jeff Hopkins continues to build a team intent on challenging for the 2020/21 Westfield W-League title, as US defender Kayla Morrison and MelindaJ Barbieri link up with the Victory squad ahead of the new campaign.
Morrison, 24, will join Victory from Swedish club Morön Bollklubb alongside 20-year-old midfielder Barbieri, who returns to action in Navy Blue after a year on the sidelines due to an ACL injury.
Barbieri, who was part of the 2018/19 Victory squad which won the Westfield W-League Premiership, told the club website how exciting it is to return to action with the club after a frustrating season spent on the sidelines.
“It’s wonderful to have re-signed with the club,” Barbieri said.
“I want to thank Jeff Hopkins, the staff and my teammates for all their support and help in my recovery.
“It was really tough watching the team from the sidelines last season, but I’m really enjoying training with the squad and we can’t wait to get back on the pitch and start competing again.
“We have built a really special environment at this club and we are looking to keep working hard to improve on the past two seasons.
“To have the opportunity to play in front of our loyal members and fans again is going to be very special.”
The two signings help Victory take significant strengthening measures in both midfield and an attack devoid of Natasha Dowie, who scored 34 goals in 59 appearances for the club before departing in the off-season.
Rasschaert returns to Canberra for a second campaign
33-year-old defender Jessie Rasschaert has re-signed with Canberra United after a successful debut season in 2019/20.
Rasschaert joins striker Demi Koulizakis and 18-year-old goalkeeper Sally James in committing to Vicki Linton’s Canberra side in recent days.
After making nine appearances in her debut campaign, Rasschaert says she is ready to build on her promising start to life in the competition and continue to show that age is no barrier to a player intent on developing and excelling as a Westfield W-League talent.
“I’m stoked to be back playing for Canberra again this season,” Rasschaert told the club website.
“It is good to know that last year wasn’t a fluke and that even in my old age I can still keep up with the young ones.
“What I am most looking forward to is walking out with the team in front of a home crowd.
“It was such a memorable experience last year and it is a humbling feeling to be able to put on the green jersey again in front of my hometown and all my friends and family.
“I’m excited to start training with the new squad and get to know the girls.”
