End of an era in Portland: Allie Long traded to Reign
- by Paul Kennedy @pkedit, Jan 12, 2018
The deal follows a trade between the Reign and Sky Blue FC earlier on Thursday: The Reign sent defender Rebekah Stott and forward Katie Johnson to New Jersey for Foord's rights.
Forever Harry. pic.twitter.com/4OZhDdSv8q
— Allie Long (@ALLIE_LONG) January 12, 2018
“We are very appreciative of Allie’s contributions to the club over the past five seasons,” said Thorns FC general manager and president of soccer Gavin Wilkinson. “She accomplished a great deal during her time in Portland, winning two NWSL Championships and achieving her goal of making it to the national team, and we wish her all the best.”
Long played in 100 matches for the Thorns, finishing 30 goals and 13 assists. She helped the Thorns win league championships in 2013 and 2017 and an NWSL Shield in 2016. She was a NWSL Best XI selection in 2015 and 2016 and was named to the NWSL Second XI in 2014.
“Strengthening our midfield with a world-class player like Allie Long is a big step forward for our squad,” said Reign FC head coach Vlatko Andonovski. “Allie has been a massively impactful player for Portland over the past five years and we believe she can have a similar impact in our team.”
Foord, 23, played three seasons with Sky Blue FC (2013-15), earning a Second XI recognition in 2013. She is currently playing with Sydney FC during the 2017-18 W-League campaign after a season in Japan. At 16, she was named the 2011 Asian Women’s Young Footballer of the Year.
“Caitlin is one of the most explosive and exciting players in the world,” said Thorns head coach Mark Parsons. “She has the ability to create and finish in various ways. Her enthusiasm and tireless work rate on both sides of the ball will bring a new dimension to our team.”
