Tara Kirk leaves Peterborough United to join rival club in same division

Tara Kirk has left Peterborough United Women to sign for rivals West Bromwich Albion Women.

Kirk, who has become a viral sensation on social media after some impressive form in 2023, spent four years with Posh.

Instagram @taramaekirk

The striker joined the Women’s National League North side in 2021, but she has now departed to sign for West Brom.

The Baggies are in the same division as her now-former club, who were promoted to the third tier last season.

Kirk scored 55 goals in 96 games in all competitions for Peterborough, starring on the pitch and building a huge following online.

She has also made appearances for the Republic of Ireland‘s youth side, whilst starting her career with Leicester City.

Speaking following her move to West Brom, the 23-year-old forward said: “I’m so excited. It’s nice to get it over the line.

“I can’t wait to get started. Everyone has been so welcoming. 

“I’m very fortunate with the way I’ve been accepted in the group, and I can’t wait to do as well as I can for the club.

“I’m very impressed with the facilities. It’s really great that the women’s team get looked after so well here, and that was a big deal for me when joining.

“I’ve spoken with Siobhan Hodgetts-Still [head coach] and Martyn Irvine [interim head coach].

“They’ve both been super welcoming and it’s been great to meet them and train under them. They’re both very ambitious and that matches me perfectly.”

Saying goodbye

Kirk boasted an incredible record at Peterborough, and after achieving promotion last season, she’s sad to depart.

The forward posted on social media after her exit was confirmed: “Posh, I wasn’t just at a football club, I was a part of a family for the past four years where I made many achievements as well as always wanting to get Peterborough United promoted.

“Football is all about new challenges, new experiences, new opportunities and so it’s time to move on.

“Posh fans, you have made me feel so so grateful and I thank you all for your incredible continued support throughout the years, I mean that with my whole heart. I am very lucky to have had you.

“My teammates, the staff and the club, I thank you for the best memories on and off the pitch, and will always carry them with me.”

Peterborough Women’s manager Jake Poole has also spoken about the departure of one of his stars in Kirk, saying: “Tara has played a massive part in the growth and success of Peterborough United Women.

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“We are grateful for her contribution, not just on the pitch, but as a terrific team-mate and person to have within the squad.

“We wish her all the best in her new challenge and I have no doubt she will add value to a squad wherever she goes in the future.”