The final pieces of Auckland FC’s OFC Pro League playing squad are falling into place, with four new names announced ahead of the club’s first game against South Island United on Saturday, January 17.
Ronan Wynne, 24, James Bayliss, 25, Reid Drake, 29 and Nathan Lobo, 23, have all been signed by the club.
Ronan Wynne is a right back and New Zealand Under 23 age-group international. The South-African born Kiwi has spent the last few years of his career playing in the United States.
James Bayliss joins from Marconi Stallions. The defensive midfielder also played 12 A-League games from for Central Coast Mariners back in the 2022/23 season – the same year the team won the Grand Final.
Arriving from closer to home and bringing a wealth of experience to this young team is Reid Drake. Drake has previously played for Western Springs, Auckland City and Eastern Suburbs. The left footed central midfielder has played in three FIFA Club World Cups and is a three-time Oceania Champions League Winner. He’s also played in numerous national league and northern league winning teams.
Another player with an Auckland City connection is Nathan Lobo. The defender recently featured on the winning side in the National League Grand Final. He has also played for New Zealand’s Under 23 and Under 17 sides, has four Club World Cup appearances, four Oceania Champions Leagues and two Chatham Cups.
“The squad is almost complete,” says Auckland FC OFC Pro League head coach, Luke Casserly.
“They have been training together for a few weeks now and it is great to see the understanding and camaraderie that is developing amongst the squad. Every one of these players will have a part to play and some experience to bring that will prove invaluable in the months ahead.”
The OFC Pro League consists of eight teams across seven oceanic nations, competing over five rounds before concluding in knockout finals.
The club has already announced several signings, including players from Auckland City, Wellington Olympic, and Western Springs. As well as a number of Auckland FC reserves players.
Auckland FC v South Island United will kick-off at 7pm at Eden Park on Saturday, January 17. Tickets to the game start at $15 and can be bought here.
Ronan Wynne
| Position | Age | Nationality |
| Right back | 24 | New Zealand |
Ronan Wynne played for Atlanta United 2 last season, the reserve team of MLS Side, Atlanta United. The defender also scored and assisted for the side, featuring in all 28 games. He has spent time playing in Denmark and was previously part of the Wellington Phoenix youth set-up.
James Bayliss
| Position | Age | Nationality |
| Defensive midfield | 25 | Australia |
Bayliss joined the Central Coast Mariners academy in 2019 before making his A-League debut in 2022. Bayliss made 12 A-League games before signing with Marconi Stallions for the 2024 NPL NSW season, making 11 appearances.
Reid Drake
| Position | Age | Nationality |
| Central Midfield | 29 | New Zealand |
Napier-born Drake has a wealth of experience and clocked up more than 200 games, scoring 60 goals across a career that has taken him to three FIFA Club World Cups and numerous Oceania Champions Leagues, winning three. Drake has also won the NZ National League six times and the National League Grand Final twice.
Nathan Lobo
| Position | Age | Nationality |
| Left back | 23 | New Zealand |
Lobo arrives after a highly successful season with Auckland City, winning the National League Grand Final. Previous clubs including Birkenhead and Waitakere United as well as time spent with Seattle University Redhawks. Auckland-born Lobo also has four caps for New Zealand Under 23s. He joins former Auckland City team mates Matt Ellis and Michael den Heijer.
