It has been a busy pre-season period both on and off the pitch for United Women, with a packed-schedule, and a number of new and returning faces in Steve Elswood’s squad.
Several players from last season’s record-breaking campaign have recently penned new deals to remain at TUWFC for the upcoming season.
Perhaps the most dramatic news though, was the return of cultured left-back Ocean Latto, who returned to United via the briefest of spells at Devon rivals Exeter City.
Football has a funny way of bringing about surprises, as only hours later it was revealed that last term’s two Devon Premier Cup finalists would be meeting at the 1st round stage this season, following Torquay’s memorable success over their Devon rivals in the showpiece at Coach Road last April.
In addition to Latto’s eye-catching return, a number of other new arrivals have bolstered the side.
Leah Brooks, who has been described as ‘a natural leader in midfield with a wealth of experience. Cool, and calm under pressure, with a focused mindset, and one of the best decision makers of the squad,’ is one of four to re-sign.
Next up is Rhi Bailey who re-signed on 8th August, and upon re-signing, has been noted as ‘tenacious, hard-working, and battling with an eye for goal, and a love of the shirt.’ On the same evening, it was also announced that Daisy Self has agreed terms for another year. Daisy ‘possesses a natural ability on the pitch, along with a strong and powerful presence in her game.’
Another welcome return to the 22/23 squad is Kiara Robins, who returns to the team following knee surgery, after injury kept her on the side-lines last time out. Kiara has been described by Manager Steve Elswood as ‘a young, gifted player with an eye for a pass and a strong finish.’
Elswood’s squad has also been strengthened by a number of new faces signing for the Club. Former Peterborough United Ladies Molly Orr-Love recently relocated to Devon, and after impressing in pre-season trials, is one of the latest additions. Molly has been described as ‘a tall, strong player, with a powerful finish.’
Another player who proved herself in pre-season trials is 16-year-old Nashya Paz, who started her career at Shaldon Ladies, has penned a deal at TUWFC. Meanwhile Katie Sawyer has also committed to Elswood’s side for the upcoming campaign, after dual registration last time out saw Sawyer play for United’s Development side, as well as Liverton Ladies – she has been described as ‘a versatile player who shows strength, focus, and an eye for both attacking and defensive phases of play.
TUWFC began their pre-season campaign on Sunday 10th July, away at Cardiff City, where the side slipped to defeat. Two weeks later, United hosted Portishead Town Ladies, who play in the division above. Goals from Mia Preston, and a brace from Danni Garland saw out a 3-3 draw.
Steve Elswood’s side returned to Coach Road on Sunday 7th August to host Saltash United, which saw TUWFC’s first official fixture at their new home ground at Devon FA. It was an impressive 4-1 victory for the yellows, with goals from Captain Danni Wyatt, Rhy Bailey, and new signings Molly Orr-Love, and Preston.
Thursday 11th August saw the side return to midweek action, with a friendly away from home at Budleigh Salterton. A spirited performance saw United Women come out on top with a 3-0 victory thanks to goals from Preston, Wyatt, and new signing, 16-year-old Nashya Paz.
Although Sunday’s most recent friendly – a 1-4 defeat against a Barry Town side including young Welsh internationals – was arguably one step too far at this early stage, the experience gained from facing such strong opponents can only add to the preparation for a long season ahead.
TUWFC’s final test ahead of their 2022/23 season opener in September is due to take place this weekend, Sunday 21st August, against Weymouth, with the venue TBC, keep an eye on our official Club social media channels for details!
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