Melbourne City FC has added three new signings to its Westfield W-League squad and announced back of shirt partner, The Pancake Parlour, on the eve of the 2015/16 season.
Head Coach Joe Montemurro has added forward Melina Ayres, defender Olivia Ellis and striker Anisa Guajardo to his squad, taking the Club’s inaugural W-League squad to 18 contracted players.
Ayres and Ellis, both just 16-years-old, join from Victorian Women’s Premier League outfits Ashburton United and Boroondara Eagles FC, respectively, while 24-year-old Guajardo joins from Heidelberg United.
Ayres and Guajardo will add additional firepower to Montemurro’s already impressive front line, with the latter having featured for Mexico at under-17, under-20 and senior level, while Ellis will provide further depth in defence as a versatile right or left full back.
Montemurro welcomed the new signings ahead of the team’s Round 1 clash against Sydney FC, which will kick off at 5.30pm at Lambert Park this Sunday.
“I’m really pleased with the players we have assembled this season and certainly have a sense of pride and faith in their ability to lead our Club into its inaugural campaign,” Montemurro said.
“Melina, Olivia and Ania have worked hard to earn their contracts and these young players are the ones who will hopefully develop and learn from our experienced players.”
Melbourne City also unveiled its back of shirt partnership with The Pancake Parlour for the 2015/16 season.
“We are absolutely thrilled to team up with Melbourne City for the club’s first W-League season,” The Pancake Parlour Marketing and Communications Manager, Nicole Jackson, said.
“The Pancake Parlour is a like-minded, family-oriented Melbourne institution, our passion is engaging with the community by putting smiles on people’s faces, and we’re excited about furthering one of the most exciting match-day experiences at both Melbourne City’s Men’s and Women’s fixtures.”
Melbourne City FC Westfield W-League 2015/16 Squad, as of Friday 16 October (18 players): 1. Brianna DAVEY (GK), 2. Monique IANNELLA, 3. Alex CHIDIAC, 5. Laura ALLEWAY, 6. Aivi LUIK, 7. Stephanie CATLEY, 8. Kim LITTLE, 9. Larissa CRUMMER, 10. Jess FISHLOCK, 11. Lisa DEVANNA, 12. Olivia ELLIS, 13. Rebekah STOTT, 14. Melina AYRES, 15. Amy JACKSON, 16. Beatrice GOAD, 17. Marianna TABAIN, 18. Anisa GUAJARDO, 20. Trudy BURKE (GK)