Having begun preparations for UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying, Gintra have strengthened their attack with American forward Brianna Taylor.

The 26-year-old from Philadelphia arrived in Šiauliai determined to contribute to victories at home and in Europe. "I started playing as soon as I could walk. The ball was always beside me. It's a huge part of my life," she smiled after joining her first training session.

She began with NJSA04 at home, then played for Delran High School and Lander University. After graduating, Brianna turned professional in Europe, playing in Hungary's top division, including for multiple champions MTK Budapest. She also spent a season with Bnot Eilat in Israel.


B. Taylor spent three seasons in Hungary

Brianna has yet to play in the UEFA Women's Champions League, so the chance to fulfil that dream with Gintra means a great deal: "It will be an important career step. I'm focused on working hard. I arrived knowing the team was already halfway through the season, so I must be fully ready to join in. I hope to settle quickly, help the team win and get opportunities to score."

Brianna has already started training and met her teammates and coaches. Her first impressions of Šiauliai are excellent.

"The club has a long history and a clear aim: to be the best. Before coming, I spoke with Rashida, who is in her second season here. Her positive impressions of the city and club atmosphere made my decision easier and gave me confidence. Since arriving, I've seen that for myself," Taylor said.

Asked about her strengths, Brianna highlighted her speed and determination: "I'll always try again. Even if it doesn't work first time, I'll look for ways to win the ball and create a scoring opportunity. If I miss that chance, I'll work even harder to make a second or third."

Brianna feels most comfortable leading the attack: "I like being near the opponents' goal, finding gaps, being in the right place, scoring or creating a chance for a teammate."

Her choice of number 6 is symbolic: "That number has been with me from the first day of my career, at school, club and university. It's my lucky number."

Club director Mantas Radavičius says Brianna brings both attacking quality and a personality shaped by varied international experience: "Brianna has considerable European experience, pace, determination and dedication. We believe she will become an important part of our attack and help us achieve victories."

Šiauliai will host a UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying tournament for the third consecutive year. Gintra face Romanian champions FCV Farul in the semi-final on 27 August. The Ukrainian champions play the other semi-final against opponents to be confirmed shortly. The final for the sole place in the main UEFA Women's Champions League competition takes place on 30 August at Šiauliai City Stadium.

Failure to reach the group stage would not end Gintra's European season: finishing at least third in the qualifying tournament would allow them to continue in the UEFA Women's Europa Cup.

Stand with the team: every supporter's presence at the stadium will be especially important! Buy your tickets now via this link.