Goalscoring Harker to play on in 2026

Another notable name has re-signed with Hume City FC in the off-season, with the club’s leading goalscorer from 2025, Rob Harker, to return to Broadmeadows with the team for the 2026 season.

Born and bred in the United Kingdom, Harker arrived in Australia ahead of the 2025 season after stints with English clubs Bury, Burnley, Halifax Town and Australian club Gold Coast United.

His move to Hume City turned out to be a successful one, with the Englishman enjoying a strike rate of more than 50 per cent in league appearances.

Starting out his youth career with Bury Town, Harker made his senior debut the following season in the EFL Trophy, before moving to Premier League side Burnley.

Following four years with the club where he had a loan spell to Hartlepool United, Harker moved to Halifax Town where he scored 17 times in 64 appearances before relocating to Australia at the start of 2024, joining Gold Coast United.

After one season, Harker was snapped up by Hume City where he made 15 appearances in the NPL Victoria, netting eight times in that time, including a three-game goalscoring streak.

Getting his first goal for the club against Melbourne Sharks in April, Harker went on a solid run towards the end of May, which started with a last-minute equaliser against Dandenong Thunder, a game-winning brace against Green Gully and a smart finish against Dandenong City.

Another brace in July against Melbourne Sharks and a goal in the final round of the season saw Harker take out the leading goalscorer award for the club.

“I am more than happy to re-sign with the club and I look forward to doing special things with them in 2026,” Harker said.

“I can see the direction that the club is heading in and I want to be a big part of that. It’s a great atmosphere at the club as we are a big family and I am loving my football here.

“Hopefully next year I can have an even bigger contribution to the team with more goals to help us make finals.”

Senior Coach Nick Hegarty was pleased to have Harker recommit to the team.

“Rob has fantastic pedigree and all the attributes of a top forward. I have no doubt he will have a fantastic year with us in 2026,” Hegarty said.

“He has already shown his quality in front of goal and he will only get better, fitter and stronger in pre season.

“Having him for another year will certainly help our chances of getting back into the finals next year and I am looking forward to working with him for a full campaign.”