APIA lose their Golden Boot winner to the A-League. They've found a 24yo QLD goal machine to replace him

Wests APIA have moved to replace A-League-bound Golden Boot winner Presley Ortiz, signing prolific Queensland forward Marquez Walters as part of a five-player recruitment drive for the 2026 Australian Championship.

The 24-year-old arrives from Moreton City Excelsior, having established himself as one of NPL Queensland's most dangerous attackers with 18 league goals in 2026, alongside valuable experience in the Australia Cup and inaugural Australian Championship.

Walters will help fill the void left by Ortiz's move to Central Coast Mariners, while also reuniting with Moreton City teammate Joe Scott, who emerged as one of the breakout performers of last year's national tournament.

APIA have also recruited Sydney FC duo Reef Farias and Taye Hedley.

Defender Farias made 23 NPL NSW appearances this season and has trained with the Sky Blues' extended A-League squad, while attacking midfielder Hedley, 20, contributed five goals and three assists.

Completing the recruitment drive is 16-year-old Orson Conroy, who returns to his boyhood club from Sydney FC. Having first joined APIA at the age of five, Conroy will now have the opportunity to represent Franco Parisi's senior side on the national stage.

The five arrivals bolster an APIA squad preparing to face Avondale, Adelaide City and Broadmeadow Magic in Group B of the Australian Championship, with the NSW outfit looking to challenge for national honours.