Women’s football: Dulwich Hamlet sign West Ham keeper on loan

Dulwich Hamlet have signed West Ham goalkeeper Mia North on loan.

The 19-year-old goalkeeper is on the academy books of the FA Women’s Super League outfit. North was previously at Yeovil Town Ladies, and has also featured with the Wales U19 set-up.

North said: “I’m 19 now, and I need to be looking to get women’s football experience. Playing in the U21s for a couple of years, I need to start looking to go up an age group. The move was pretty easy and I’m really happy to be here.

“I think communication is definitely one of my biggest traits. I’m very loud on the pitch. I’ll happily throw myself in front of the ball and not care if I’m going to get hurt. Shotstopping ability, distribution as well for sure.”

“My team-mates have been really supportive and welcoming. It’s been really easy to settle in. I’ve been here [Dulwich Hamlet] to watch a game and I saw what the crowd was like, it was a really incredible atmosphere. I’m really looking forward to experiencing that myself when the time does come.”

Dulwich manager Ryan Dempsey said: “Mia has great experience playing for Yeovil and West Ham, county teams and for Wales at international level.”

“I’m delighted that West Ham have allowed Mia to continue her development with us by gaining valuable experience playing adult football where points are on the line every game.”

“Mia has settled in really well and gave an assured performance on her debut against Crystal Palace DevA [in Sunday’s 5-0 victory]. Mia’s composure on the ball was a big asset and she made an excellent save, tipping the ball on to the bar.”

PHOTOS: LIAM ASMAN