A trio of local football products will return to Canberra United for the upcoming Westfield W-League season, as Rachael Goldstein, Lauren Keir and Hayley Taylor-Young all sign with the club.
Lauren Keir joins Canberra United for her third Westfield W-League campaign, having made her debut in the 2018/19 season.
Keir, who led Belconnen United to a treble-winning season in 2019, has been playing for Illawarra Stingrays in NSW’s NPLW this year, making eight appearances for her new club. The 24-year-old said she is excited to pull on the United jersey again.
“I felt a bit of relief off my shoulders, knowing that I am coming back home to play for Canberra United,” Keir said. “Canberra is home for me and I wanted to play there again so I am really looking forward to it.”
Keir will be joined by Rachael Goldstein, who has also enjoyed a strong 2020 season in the NSW NPLW with the Macarthur Rams.
Goldstein, who made her debut for Canberra United in their 3-1 win over Adelaide United last season, said she is looking forward to the challenge of cementing her spot in the team.
“I am excited to be back and continue what I started last year,” Goldstein said. “I want to step up and start improving as a player this season and I want to work towards getting more game time. I really like the way Vicki coaches so I am just excited to learn off her experience.”
Young gun Hayley Taylor-Young has also joined the Canberra United squad after her debut season in the Westfield W-League where she played seven games and scored her first goal.
After winning the club’s University of Canberra Rising Star award last season, the 18-year-old speedster spent the 2020 winter season with the Canberra United Academy.
Head coach Vicki Linton said all three players will bring something unique to her squad this season.
“It is pleasing to announce the re-signing of Canberra locals Lauren, Rachael and Hayley,” Linton said. “Rachael and Lauren have continued their development this year playing in the NSW NPLW with Hayley finishing out her eligibility in the Canberra United Academy.
“I have had the chance to work with Hayley for a short time over the last few weeks and I look forward to getting Lauren and Rachael into the environment and working with them.
“All three players already have experience in the Westfield W-League and I look forward to seeing what they can bring to the squad this season.”
