Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from the Sky Blues’ new signings Anna Green, Madison Hayley, and Shay Evans plus head coach Ante Juric (14/10/22).
Above: Sydney FC’s three new signings (left to right): Shay Evans, Anna Green, and Madison Hayley. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Sydney FC.
Sydney FC have snapped up three new recruits from home and abroad to super-charge their quest for a third consecutive Premiership and fourth women’s title.
The Sky Blues have signed 80-capped Kiwi International full-back Anna Green from Capital Football in New Zealand, Chicago Red Stars forward Madison Haley, and former Sydney FC and Young Matildas striker Shay Evans, the original scholar for Impetus charity partners Moriarty Foundation.
32-year old Green, who can play in either full back or centre back position, made five appearances for the Sky Blues in 2013, including against Chelsea and Colo-Colo at the International Women’s Club Championship in Japan.
Green is famed for her stunning goal from the corner flag against the Matildas earlier this year – one of eight for her country – and has been a long-time member of the Football Ferns international squad.
She has also played in the German, English, and Swedish leagues during her 14-year career and has her eyes on a fantastic season with the Sky Blues to cement her place in the New Zealand World Cup 2023.
“I’m really happy to be back in Sydney and looking forward to helping the squad win more silverware,” she said.
“We have a really good group of young players and I want to bring my experience to help us continue to build on the strong foundations from previous years. This is a big year for everyone in women’s football, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, with places at the World Cup up for grabs. I want to make sure I put myself in the frame for a spot in the final squad.”
23-year-old Madison Haley was selected seventh overall in last year’s NWSL draft by the Chicago Red Stars. Haley joins Sydney FC from Stanford University where she had a phenomenal goal-scoring and assists record.
Haley was a regular within the US Women’s National Team system – featuring for the U-15s, U-17s, U-18s, U-20s, & U-23s. She will bring strength, speed, and excitement to the forward line.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity to play professionally overseas and explore this beautiful country. It’s a great year to be in Australia with the World Cup on the horizon. I look forward to adding to that excitement by scoring a lot of goals.”
Shay Evans returns for a third season with Sydney FC having been part of the Sky Blues 2018-19 Championship winning season and the 2019-20 squad for the narrow Grand Final loss to Melbourne City.
The 21-year-old is eager to add to her one goal for the club.
“Scoring my first goal in Sky Blue was an unbelievable feeling and I can’t wait to add to it this season,” she said.
“I feel I’ve grown as a player since I last pulled on a Sky Blue jersey and I’m ready to challenge for those forward line places this year. We’ve so many great young players that it’s going to be really tough to get into the starting eleven but I’m ready for that challenge.”
The signings almost complete Head Coach Ante Juric’s squad for this season and he is excited to see them get started.
“These three players really strengthen us in different areas,” he said.
“I think we’ve got real competition for places and a very high standard among the playing group so I’ve no doubt training will be intense and will improve everyone, when we get going tonight.
“This club has a fantastic history and reputation to uphold in the Women’s competition so it’s important we take pre-season seriously and ensure we are firing come round one. I’m looking forward to getting started.”
The Sky Blues kick off their season on Saturday 20th November away to Adelaide United.
Sydney FC’s Liberty A-League 2022-23 Squad To Date:
Natalie Tobin (Captain), Deborah-Anne De La Harpe, Indiana Dos Santos, Jynaya Dos Santos, Shay Evans, Kirsty Fenton, Anna Green, Madison Haley, Mackenzie Hawkesby, Shay Hollman, Sarah Hunter, Princess Ibini, Abbey Lemon, Rachel Lowe, Charlotte McLean, Katie Offer, Taylor Ray, Charlie Rule, Anika Stajcic, Mary Stanic-Floody, Cortnee Vine, Jada Whyman.
impetusfootball.org 