Photo: Matt Johnson
South Melbourne have added further W-League experience to their squad, signing Alex Gummer for the 2017 NPLW season.
The versatile defender or midfielder will add an array of abilities for South Melbourne, known for her tireless efforts going from box to box, physicality, and ability to find the back of the net.
Gummer returns to Australian football fresh off a stint with English top-flight outfit Doncaster Rovers Belles earlier this year, with the 24-year-old spending the second half of the season battling a serious foot injury before making a return to the W-League with Melbourne Victory.
The former Casey Comets youth last plied her trade in Victoria for Boroondara Eagles in the WPL, where most notable she helped her side to the Team App Cup and Premiership double.
Grand Final success would eventually elude Gummer and the Eagles, as Shaun Ontong’s side went down ironically to South Melbourne in the decider.
In between, Gummer has had two stints at Adelaide United and two at Melbourne Victory, although her more fruitful spells have come across the border, making seven appearances and scoring twice.
“I’m really excited to be a part of South in 2017,” Gummer told smfc.com.au
“South Melbourne is a great club, with great facilities and a great culture. I’m looking forward to joining the club, helping the team to achieve its full potential and hopefully win the league.”
Football Director Gabrielle Guiliano believes the leadership shown from Gummer will help stand the club in good stead as they prepare for a return to the top division of women’s football in the state.
“Alex is an excellent addition to the club and we are excited to have another player from the W-League join our senior team,” Guiliano told smfc.com.au.
“With her experience and leadership, we think she can play a valuable role for us in 2017 and look forward to her joining us once her duties with Melbourne Victory are complete.”
Gummer joins Tiffany Eliadis as new additions for South’s inaugural NPLW season, with two-time Premiership winning coach Socrates Nicolaides also re-signed for 2017.