As the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division prepares to return after a mid-season break, here are some of the summer signings who could make a big impact.
As the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division prepares to return after a mid-season break, here are some of the summer signings who could make a big impact.
Katie Keane (Shelbourne to Athlone Town)
There comes a time when a talented teenager needs to be trusted in senior games. That time has come for Keane. The agile shotstopper excelled for Shelbourne’s Under-19s but there is a queue for the No 1 position at senior level, so a move to the Midlands could be perfect timing for her to get game-time.
Heidi O'Sullivan (Treaty United to Cork City)
With just five goals scored in the League, Cork need firepower and O’Sullivan is someone who can provide it. She is still unproven in this League but this move acts as a step up for her and she will be keen to prove that she can lead the line for Danny Murphy’s side. Give her the service and she can finish.
Julie-Ann Russell (Galway United)
It was a surprise and a blow when Gemma McGuinness confirmed her departure for AFC Bournemouth as it left The Tribeswomen without a creative playmaker who can turn games. Who better then to fill that void than Russell? She has literally been there and done it, many times before. After a break away from the game, she will be itching to get going.
Scarlett Herron (Athlone Town to Shamrock Rovers)
The reigning FAI Ireland Women’s Under-19 Player of the Year is a class act. She glides across the midfield with her clever running off the ball but becomes as subtle as bulldozer when wanting to stop opposition players. Herron has an excellent range of passing and can play anywhere across the midfield.
Caoimhe O'Reilly (Hounslow Women to Sligo Rovers)
Back in the League following a few years in England, O’Reilly is a former underage international who commands her penalty area, boasts good handling skills and has a knack of reacting to danger before it happens. She will be a welcome addition to a Sligo team that has already conceded 31 league goals.
Sarah Power (Peamount United to Treaty United)
Naturally, Power is a box-to-box midfielder but she can also play in defence (centrally or at full-back) because her best attibute is her consistency. She is the type of player who makes those around her even better and is never short of commitment in how she plays the game. Keep an eye out for her, she has great potential.
