ARGYLE Ladies completed the capture of two new faces late last week in order to strengthen their squad ahead of their pursuit of the SW Women's Combination League title, and promotion to the FA Women's Premier Leagues.

As expected, young central defender Jemma Rose, a product of the club's FA Licenced Centre of Excellence and current England U17 captain, signed senior forms with the Pilgrims on her 16th birthday, and took her place in the squad for the weekend's County Cup quarter-final against local side Alphington.

However, the surprise signing was that of Rachel Pitman from Bristol Academy on a dual-signing basis. Pitman is a team mate of Rose in the current England U17 set-up and has also travelled across Europe, proudly representing the Three Lions. She is a pacy striker with a prolific goal-scoring record at junior level, and will be eager to continue her rich vein of form into the senior ranks.

Argyle Manager Ryan Thomas stated that both players, despite their tender years, would add vital competition for places immediately.

He said: "I'm delighted to have both Jemma and Rachel in the squad for the most difficult part of the season. They arrive with a huge amount of promise, and it is our club's job to ensure they continue to develop so that like all players at the club, they can be the best they can possibly be.

"Kev Rose (assistant manager) has been instrumental in getting these two on board so hats off to him. These two will hopefully push standards higher amongst the whole group, which will benefit everybody - I'm delighted and looking forward to getting our stop-start season going again."