Watford FC Women are delighted to announce the addition of seven new players to their squad ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
The Hornets are pleased to confirm Jade Bradley, Lois Edwards, Grace Garrad, Jacqueline-Anne Goldsmid, Allison Palisch, Kalani Peart and Poppy Wilson have all signed on, with the new season kicking off this Sunday at home to Gillingham (August 21, 2pm KO).
Formerly of AFC Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Queens Park Rangers and Reading, Bradley captained Pompey for over a year, memorably scoring in the 2019 Hampshire Cup final. A strong, experienced midfielder, Bradley provides impressive passing range and leadership to the Golden Girls.
Following a successful campaign with Crawley Wasps last term, full-back Edwards joins the Hornets, providing versatility and a clever eye for a pass. Edwards made her competitive debut for Crawley in January, and has played regularly in midfield, adding to attacking numbers with powerful runs into the box.
Defender Garrad arrives on a dual-sign agreement from West Ham United. The technical centre-back, capable of playing on the left and in midfield, is comfortable with the ball at her feet and strong in the tackle.
Goalkeeper Goldsmid was a regular starter for Crawley Wasps at this level in 2021/22, possessing quick reflexes and quality in one-on-one situations. Goldsmid has played alongside fellow new signings Nicola Gibson and Edwards already, and helped the Wasps reach the FA Women’s National League Cup semi-finals last season.
A Republic of Ireland international with experience playing in the Netherlands with PEC Zwolle, Icelandic side Selfoss and in the United States, Palisch most recently plied her trade with London City Lionesses in the Championship. Palisch, who played under maiden name Murphy in previous seasons, is a highly-rated, energetic midfielder.
Attacking midfielder Wilson, 23, was a regular for fellow FA National League Southern Division side Bridgwater United last season prior to an ankle injury, and is fully recovered and ready for action. A former Bristol City and London City Lionesses player in the WSL and Championship, Wilson made her first-team debut at WSL Cup level aged just 16, bringing experience beyond her years to the squad.
Athletic defender Peart signs from Ashford Town having also played for Millwall Lionesses and Arsenal. The 23-year-old centre-half is comfortable with carrying the ball forward and distributing from the backline.
Welcome, girls!
