South Melbourne has pulled off a major coup in signing former New Zealand U20 international Andy Bevin to its squad for the remainder of the 2015 National Premier League season.
The razor sharp striker joins South after a stint with MLS side Seattle Sounders, where other names in the squad included former English Premier League stars Clint Dempsey and Obefami Martins.
Prior to his time in Seattle, Bevin spent four years at West Virginia University, where he made a name for himself as a reliable finisher in front of goal. Bevin finished his time at WVU ranked seventh on the University’s all time goal scoring list with 31 goals.
Originally from Napier, New Zealand, Bevin starred for Hawkes Bay United and Waitiakere United across the ditch before getting his chance in the U.S. In the 2010/11 season, as an 18 year old, Bevin came second in the New Zealand championship Golden Boot award.
In 2011, Bevin represented New Zealand at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Colombia, scoring a goal against Uruguay in the group stage. He also represented the All-Whites at the U17 World Cup in 2009.
Bevin will link up with fellow Kiwis Luke Adams and Michael Eagar at the club, continuing the strong New Zealand theme that has been present over the last few years at Lakeside Stadium.
The 22 year old will be available in early June as he arrives in the country from New Zealand.
South Melbourne FC Football Director Nicholas Maikousis was excited by the signing of Bevin. “Andy has joined the club after a quite successful period of playing in the United States, where his form at University level prompted him to be drafted by MLS franchise Seattle Sounders. While that didn’t work for him, we are extremely confident that we have acquired an attacking player that will make an immediate impact at this level through his work rate and ability to score. We cannot wait until he arrives”.
The signing is South’s third of the mid-season transfer window, following Tasmanian Nick Morton, and winger Chris Irwin.
Everyone at South Melbourne would like to welcome Andy to the club, and wish him all the best for his time in Blue and White.