Northumbria University W1 Football stormed out of the blocks in their 6-0 demolition of Loughborough University, leaving them top of the BUCS Premier table after three games.
“We’ve been working on quick starts,” said women’s football head coach Amber Whiteley. This was evident in the first 15 minutes of the game, which had already seen Northumbria score three and monopolise possession.
“The previous two games were hard work, so it was nice to get the game won early,” added Whiteley.
By half-time Northumbria had added two more and seen another disallowed - and the hosts kept pushing for more. They saw plenty of success down the right-hand side of the pitch with Loughborough’s left back forced onto the back foot.
After the break Northumbria released the pressure a little, seeing the game out without giving Loughborough a sniff of a comeback.
Much of this can be credited to Northumbria’s composure and reading of the game - the defence excelled at cutting out attacks before they became threatening and made the right decisions on the ball.
“[We are] really pleased, keeping a clean sheet is always nice,” added Whiteley. “It’s great to see, especially with a new squad. There were four first years in the side and another player new to the group.”
“We met up early on as a group in pre-season so they’ve had a while to understand each other.
“The travelling for pre-season really helped to bond the group.”
During pre-season the squad also got together to help set goals for the season - helping everyone to understand their aims as a group and as individuals.
“We want to compete for both the league and cup,” added Whiteley. “Stirling at home next week is always going to be tough and they will be a physical side.
“They started out with a 3-0 win over Loughborough but I feel confident going into next week after this result.”
Jack Surtees
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