Surbiton Ladies head coach Brett Garrard is preparing for a three pronged attack on silverware this term with the addition of New Zealand international Julia King to his squad, writes Colin Pike.

The 21-year-old switched to Sugden Road from Auckland this week after helping the Kiwi club to the Ford National League title with a 1-0 win over Northland.

King has scored eight goals in 63 appearances for New Zealand since making her debut for the Black Sticks in 2011.

Surbiton have qualified for European hockey this term having won the WHL Premier Division title and the Women’s Cup last season.

And Garrard reckons King is a key addition to his plans.

“We are delighted to have signed Julia,” he said.

“As an experienced international she will add further depth and quality to our squad as we look to challenge on three fronts this season.”

King added: “I am very excited to play for Surbiton, and look forward to helping them defend both their league and cup titles, and to playing in European competition.”

Surbiton kicked off their campaign with Super Saturday at Sugden Road, which saw both the men and women start their seasons with the visit of Reading.

The men came from 1-0 down to win 3-1 through goals from Geoff McCabe, Alan Forsyth and Matt Daly, while the women were held to a 0-0 draw.

The women travel to the University of Birmingham on Saturday, while the men head to Southgate.