Seven more players join Rovers WNL squad

THE merry go round with players leaving clubs this week continued with seven players joining Shamrock Rover’s Women’s National League side including four players from champions Shelbourne.

Among the players joining the Hoops on Thursday are three Irish International players from Abbie Larkin, Lia O’Leary from Shelbourne and Aoibhe Fleming from Peamount United.

Only formed in November, Rovers are forming a very strong pool of players that already includes Irish internationals Aine O’Gorman and Stephanie Roche and U19 international goalkeeper Summer Lawless all formerly of Peamount United.

Other players to link up with the Hoops on Thursday are Jess Gargan, Shauna Fox, Amanda Budden, and Lauren Kelly, four vastly experienced players who join the Hoops from Shelbourne and Peamount United.

Speaking on her arrival at Rovers, senior Irish International Abbie Larkin, a WFAI Cup and league medal winner with Shelbourne said: “I am delighted to be joining Shamrock Rovers football club.

“It has been a difficult decision for me, however, the opportunity to sign for a club with a professional environment, a top coach and excellent facilities was an opportunity I had to take for my own development. I am extremely excited about the new challenge, but I would also like to thank the people at Shelbourne FC who have helped with my development to date.”

Lia O’Leary, a graduate of Shelbourne’s academy, is a really exciting U17 Irish International, who is also in the WNT home-based squad as they prepare for the World Cup, said: “I’m really excited to be signing for Shamrock Rovers.

“I think it’s a very professional club and that will help me to develop as a young player in the league. I’m looking forward to a new challenge and I’m excited to get going.”

Aoibhe Fleming joins the Hoops from Peamount FC and the Under 17 International said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to play senior football with Shamrock Rovers and I’m really looking forward to an exciting season in 2023”.

Former Shelbourne player Jess Gargan said on joining the Hoops: “I am delighted to be joining Shamrock Rovers football club. It’s an exciting time for the club and the league, and I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Shauna Fox said, “I’m delighted to join Rovers, I’m excited to get started in the new year looking forward to meet meeting up with all the girls and getting a good pre-season done in preparation for a big year.”

Amanda Budden, also a former Shels player said: “I’m excited to meet the girls for pre-season and I’m looking forward to getting ready for the season ahead.”

Lauren Kelly arrives to the Hoops from Peamount Utd said “I am delighted to sign for Shamrock Rovers and to be part of such a big club for the season ahead. I’m really excited about the new challenge and to see what we can achieve going forward.”