South Africa international Jethren Barr joins Drogheda

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Drogheda United have announced the signing of South Africa international goalkeeper Jethren Barr.

The 28-year-old made his move to the Emerald Isle back in 2021 where he secured a move it Irish League side Portadown where he made 67 appearances with the Armagh side.

The Sprinbok made his international debut in 2023, winning three caps in COSAFA against Namibia, Boswana and Eswatini.

“I’ve been playing in Northern Ireland, but I know how tough the league is here. Drogheda came in for me, and I’m really excited to get going,” he said, speaking to the club’s media team.

“I’ve been patient, waiting until January to get a move and I’m really buzzing to be here at Drogheda now.

“I played my first senior international games for South Africa this year which was a dream come true for me.

“I was grateful the people back home took notice of how I was playing in Northern Ireland and gave me a chance.

“I think I did well, we didn’t lose any of the three games, so hopefully there are eyes back on me and I can kick on now.”

Drogheda boss Kevin Doherty expressed his delight telling the club’s website: “There were a number of clubs looking at Jethren so it’s a great one for us to have.

“It’s not often you sign an international player either. I had looked at a few different goalkeepers but when I saw Jethren, it fit.



“We have a really good goalkeeper here in Andy Wogan, so this is good competition and we have young Ryan Maher also, who was excellent last year for the U19s.”

About Rory Merriman

Rory Merriman is a St. Patrick’s Athletic fan who studied journalism in TU Dublin and has written for numerous publications both online and print. He joined the extratime.com team in 2023. View Full Profile