AFC Women have this morning added to their ranks as the Club confirms the signing of goalkeeper Aaliyah-Jay Meach on a deal until the end of the season.

The 18-year-old joins the Dons from Park’s Motor Group SWPL2 side, Dundee United, having been with the Tangerines since 2017.

AJ, who has represented Scotland at U15, U16, U17 and U19 level, earned the SWF save of the year award in 2019 and is thrilled to be starting an exciting new chapter in her career.

“It was a surprise to have the approach from Aberdeen. I had to take a few days for it to sink in. It was a huge shock, but a nice one.”

Having signed her paperwork earlier this week, AJ joined her new teammates for training at Cormack Park and was enthused by the welcome she received.

“I was a bit nervous. I had been at Dundee United for four years so coming to a new team and environment can be difficult, but it was really good. It was a good challenge; really high standards and the players were all lovely.

“I know some of the girls like Eilidh, Jenna and Bailey from Scotland training camps so that helps. It’s great being involved with the national teams, with the best players and the best coaches.

“Having worked with Gavin and goalie coach, Kenny Strachan before it definitely helped me settle in quicker. Kenny has been my coach since I was eight years old, so we know each other really well.”

Having faced AFC Women in SWPL2 last year, AJ had no doubts they were the best team in the league and she’s looking forward to playing a part in their new challenge in Park’s Motor Group SWPL1.

“I’m excited to be stepping up a league. It will be great to play against the best of the best. I know how competitive the league is and it will be a challenge for both the team and myself but there is real quality in this squad.”

Gavin Beith, AFC Women Co-Manager, was pleased to see a player he knows well join him at Cormack Park.

“AJ brings a lot of experience for a young player and a lot of quality. We’re always looking to add to the group. She is a great person who will fit in to the squad really well.

“It makes our goalkeeping department really competitive, having Gail, Anna, AJ and Annalisa from the U19s. There is a really competitive group of goalkeepers that will push each other on and it will bode well for us in the future.

“Our goalkeeping coach Kenny also knows her really well. He’s looked after her since she was a young keeper so we’re well aware of her strengths and weaknesses. She ticks all the boxes and I’m looking forward to working with her again.”

AFC Women are on the road this Sunday as they travel to Airdrie to face Celtic, and AJ goes straight into the squad for the match.