17 Dec 2016

Football Fern Gregorius retires

6:34 pm on 17 December 2016

The Football Ferns have paid tribute to striker Sarah Gregorius who has retired from the national women's football team at the age of 29.

Football Ferns goal-scorer Sarah Gregorius

Football Ferns goal-scorer Sarah Gregorius Photo: Photosport

Gregorius scored 25 goals in 82 internationals.

Football Ferns coach Tony Readings said Gregorius' departure would be a big loss both on and off the pitch.

"She is always lively for our team and will leave a big hole. She scored some really important goals for us. She was really selfless in her approach," he said.

Football Ferns captain Abby Erceg said Gregorius would be missed.

"Sarah is a character. Anytime that anyone is around her she is always making them laugh," said Erceg.

"On the field, she is just dynamite, she has that explosive ability. She is a great person so we are sad to see her go."