Photo: Michelle Betos joins Sydney FC (Copyright Patricia Giobetti / The Equalizer)

Two time W-League champions Sydney FC have signed, on loan, Portland Thorns goalkeeper Michelle Betos for Season 8 of the W-League.

Betos joins the Sky Blues after a standout out season with the Thorns earning the shot stopper the 2015 NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year award.

“I’m really excited to spend this upcoming season with Sydney FC,” said Betos.

“I’m really looking forward to being in such a great city and helping the team have another successful year.”

The 27 year-old joins the Sydney FC following a strong season with a Portland Thorns squad that includes Matildas co-captain Clare Polkinghorne and defender Stephanie Catley.

Stepping out from the shadows of former Brisbane Roar and German goalkeeper Nadine Angerer, Betos was in career best form in her 14 appearances for the Thorns that included 45 saves, 5 wins and 2 clean sheets shutouts in her second season with Thorns FC.

Betos also memorably became the first goalkeeper to score in the NWSL with a 95th minute equaliser against FC Kansas City in June.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EgNf0tCnuQ

For the custodian, Sydney is an opportunity to continue to improve in the US off-season.

“I was so impressed with the Matildas during this past World Cup and have heard great things about the league from Steph Catley and Claire Polkinghorne, my club teammates in the US league."

“Jasmyne Spencer also said her experience with Sydney FC last year was top notch and learning about the different cultures of the world, both on and off the pitch, is an opportunity that I could not pass up."

Betos becomes Sydney's second international signing joining follow American and Sydney's Golden Boot winner from last season Spencer.

With her experience, it is expected that the University of Georgia graduate will with Sydney's number 1, replacing the injured Casey Dumont.

“When searching for goalkeepers to be a part of Sydney FC for this season not only did they have to have to possess quality shot stopping abilities but distribution was also so very important," said head coach Dan Barrett.

“Michelle has these qualities and will surely add value to Sydney FC this season. I look forward to welcoming Michelle to the squad.”