Top-class young North Wales keeper signs for Tranmere

Tranmere Rovers Women have continued their interest in North Wales talent by signing two more promising youngsters from the area.

CPDM Y Felinheli goalkeeper Catrin Beech and Airbus UK Broughton forward Niamh Makin have both joined the English Tier 5 North West Women’s Regional League Premier Division club.

The pair follow the likes of former Wrexham defender Rebecca Pritchard and ex-Rhyl FC players Emily Jones and Kim Sands to the Wirral club in recent times.

North Wales players Anna Jones, now at Felinheli, and ex-Connah’s Quay Nomads and Rhyl striker Candice Nellist also have past association with the club.

Goalkeeper CATRIN BEECH, 20, made her senior debut for CPDM Y Felinheli as a 16-year-old in February 2022 and has been regular first team keeper virtually ever since.

She has made 84 appearances for the senior XI, with whom she won the NEWFA Women’s Challenge Cup last season, plus the NWCFA Challenge Cup in 2022-23 and 2023-24.

One of her biggest accolades was being named Adran North Golden Glove winner for 2023-24.

As well as being an outstanding keeper, Catrin has also played in almost every other position for the club.

Catrin told Grassroots North Wales: “Although leaving Felin has been very hard and full of emotions I’m looking forward to the move to Tranmere Rovers, and for the new challanges I’m going to face over there.

“It has been a pleasure to play for Felinheli since the age of 16, playing for the Under 19s and women’s. Winning 3 cups, and especially the golden glove award in 2024, which I couldn’t have done without the support from the club, players and the fans.

“Diolch yn fawr i pawb yn CPDM Y Felinheli, i Aaron, Llio a Iorweth am y cymorth i gyd drost y blynyddoedd, ac enwedig y genod i gyd. Hebdda nhw swni ddim yn lle ydwi heddiw. Pob lwc i ddiwedd y Tymor.”

Club coach Llio Emyr paid tribute to Catrin, saying: “We wish her all the very best and thank her for her incredible commitment to the club over the past few years. “Without a doubt one of the best keepers the Adran Tier 2 has seen and at such a young age she deserves this opportunity.

“Her development, commitment and consistency is a reflection of her character and she fully deserves this opportunity with Tranmere Rovers.

“Catrin will be sorely missed as a stalwart at the club and as a personality in the dressing room.

“Everyone at the club wishes Catrin all the best with the further development of her career and there will always be a place for you at CPDM Y Felinheli.”