CARY, N.C. – The Carolina RailHawks have bolstered their defense with the addition of Welsh centerback Gareth Evans.

Evans comes to the RailHawks after playing for the Wilmington Hammerheads in USL PRO this season. Evans appeared in 21 matches and logged 1,890 minutes for the Hammerheads, who finished the season 14-7-3 and in second place in the American Division.

Evans has played in the U.S. since 2009, when he signed with the expansion Austin Aztex. After playing in 23 matches that season, he moved on to Real Maryland in 2010.

Evans began his professional career in his native Wales, most notably with Cefn Druids AFC and Wrexham.

Evans joins the NASL-leading RailHawks, who hold a seven-point lead at the top of the table with six games to play. Evans will be available for selection for Saturday’s match against Atlanta.