Sunderland Women sign Tara Bourne as second summer addition under Bay Collective | OneFootball

Sunderland Women have signed Tara Bourne, their second summer arrival since Bay Collective took charge. The defender joins after leaving Southampton.

It follows last week’s capture of Elise Hughes, who topped the 2023/24 Championship scoring charts.

An England youth international, the 22-year-old started in all except one of Southampton’s matches last season, recording six goal contributions from centre-back.

Head coach Mel Reay called it a key addition as preparations for 2026/27 intensify. She highlighted Bourne’s composure on the ball, aggressive defending and ability to dictate from deep to help control games.

Bourne said she is eager to get started after talks with Reay and a visit to the Academy of Light. She wants to win, challenge for promotion and develop, and pledged to give 100% every week for the badge.

Bay Collective are leading the build-up to the new season and have appointed former Spurs and West Ham boss Rehanne Skinner as Technical Director.

Source: Sunderland Echo