Soccer: NZer signs with team in US

New Zealand goalkeeper Jake Gleeson has been signed by new Major League Soccer club the Portland Timbers.

Gleeson, 20, an under-20 international, had been playing for the Oregon club's development side and starred as they enjoyed a 20-match winning run to clinch premier development league championship.

Former All Whites defender Gavin Wilkinson is the general manager/technical director of the Timbers and announced the signing of Gleeson.

He is one of four New Zealanders recently picked up by MLS teams.

Dan Keat (LA Galaxy) and Michael Boxall (Vancouver Whitecaps) were acquired in last month's MLS supplemental draft for their first season, while All Whites defender Andrew Boyens recently left the New York Red Bulls to sign with Chivas USA.

- NZPA