Roche makes a dash for Houston
FIFA Puskas Award runner-up Stephanie Roche is set to create another slice of history after being signed by NWSL club Houston Dash.
Having already become the first female to feature in the top-three for FIFA's annual best-goal award, Republic of Ireland international Roche will now become the first Irishwoman to compete in the USA’s professional league.
Roche’s spectacular juggled, volleyed goal scored last year for Peamount United against Wexford Youths earned the 25-year-old worldwide fame. The forward has since had a brief spell for French side Albi before linking with the Texan outfit.
“I am so excited about the signing of Stephanie, we are getting a player that has great technical ability, a superb left foot, and possibly the best goalscorer to come out of Ireland since Olivia O’Toole,” said Houston coach Randy Waldrum, who recently took Trinidad and Tobago to the brink of 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ qualification.
“Stephanie will bring a wealth of international experience to our team, and another great attacking option that is different from what we have already. All our Dash fans and fans of women’s soccer in general will be excited about this signing.”
Roche has represented Republic of Ireland a total of 35 times, scoring six goals. After representing Ireland at the U-17 and U-19 levels, Roche made her senior debut against Iceland in October 2008.
The Dublin-native played with Dundalk City and then Raheny United, before linking with Peamount for the inaugural season of the Irish Women’s National League in 2011/12, which they won.
Roche scored a record 71 goals in her three years with Peamount, winning the Golden Boot award in 2011/12 and 2013/14. Peamount also took part in the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2011/12 and 2012/13, where Roche scored seven goals in eight appearances.