The Houston Dash have signed Australia goalkeeper Lydia Williams, seen here playing for the WNY Flash in 2014. (Photo Copyright Erica McCaulley for The Equalizer)
The Houston Dash have signed Australian international goalkeeper Lydia Williams ahead of the 2016 NWSL season. The Flash needed a goalkeeper after Erin McLeod elected to play in Europe. Williams will join Bianca Henninger as keepers on the Dash roster. The 27-year old has dual citizenship and will not require the Dash to use an international roster spot.
Williams played in NWSL two years ago when the Flash signed her to replace injured Adrianna Franch. In 14 matches she posted a 1.14 goals against average going 6-6-1 with two shutouts. Her Flash career came to an abrupt end when she tore her ACL against the Washington Spirit on July 12, 2014.
“She has played in the NWSL, so she understands what playing in this league is all about,” Dash head coach Randy Waldrum said. “With the addition of Lydia and our recent draft picks, we’ve had a very exciting week.”
Williams worked through rehab to he healthy in time to take her place in Australia’s team at the World Cup. She watched the opening match from the bench before taking over as the starter and playing the final four games. Williams allowed two goals and registered two shutouts helping Australia win a knockout match for the first time.
If Australia qualifies for the Olympic Games this summer Williams could miss significant time with the Dash.
