The A-League Women’s new kids on the block, Western United announced today their second and third squad members ahead of their debut campaign. Impetus hears from Adriana and Melissa Taranto plus club head coach Mark Torcaso as the pair signed on the dotted line today (16/8/22).
Above: Adriana and Melissa Taranto show their delight at becoming Western United’s second and third squad members ahead of their inaugural A-League Women campaign. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Western United.
Sisters Adriana and Melissa Taranto will hope their twin connection gives them an edge on and off the field as the pair become the first siblings to sign for Western United.
This will be a return to the A-League Women for the 23-year-olds, who both debuted for Melbourne Victory in 2015 as 16-year-olds while also representing Australia at youth level.
“It means so much, not only individually but to sign on together is amazing,” Adriana said. “We’ve played in the same team since I can remember, so to play at the highest level in Australia – we just can’t wait.”
“We’ve been wanting to push to get into the A-League again, so for the opportunity to join a club like Western United who has done so much with its men’s team, and with the partner club at Calder United (where they are playing NPLW football), it’s something we’re super excited for,” Melissa added.
A-League Women Head Coach Mark Torcaso is eager to see the pair return to the top flight after impressing in the NPLW Victoria for Calder United.
“Mel and Adriana have been standout players in NPLW for some time, and it’s really overdue that they have another opportunity at professional level,” Torcaso said.
“They have both grown and developed so much and are more than ready for this chance, I’m honoured to be able to give them both that opportunity. They’re tenacious, willing to work and learn and will both be great for the group in the inaugural season.”
The midfielders both have an eye for goal, with Adriana scoring five times in the NPLW season and Melissa finding the net in the Nike F.C. Cup semi-final as well as the final, where she won the Theresa Deas Medal for best on ground.
They join Calder United teammate Alana Cerne in signing on for Western United’s A-League Women side ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
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