It has been a difficult season for Sefton Ladies in the Women’s Championship North 1 League.
But at the 15th attempt brought their first win of the season.
They defeated Barnsley Ladies 20-19, ending a 14-match losing run.
“It’s been a tough season in the new league but the resilience, determination and positivity shown by the girls week in week out is inspiring,” said captain Sian Eleri.
In their last playing season Sefton Ladies won 11 out of their 13 games, losing only once in their promotion from Women’s Championship North 2.
COVID-19 cut the 2019-2020 season short, and the break resulted in a high turnover in players which resulted in a fresh squad ahead of this season.
“To finally be able to translate all that hard work into a bonus point win on Sunday was an amazing feeling. Something the girls thoroughly deserved,” Eleri said.
The game against Barnsley Ladies went into stoppage time with Sefton heroically defending their own line.
This attitude after such a challenging season pleased coach Sean Muirhead.
“The entire squad demonstrated a tremendous amount of bravery, resilience, determination and perseverance to get that first win of the season,” Muirhead said.
“After a season of arduous close encounters and heart breaking last minute defeats.
“It was a fantastic achievement to walk away yesterday with a win, particularly at home.”
Close defeats
Sefton Ladies have encountered close losses recently to both West Park Leeds Ladies and Kenilworth Women showing the first win was never far away.
Next for Sefton Ladies is Novocastrians Ladies who are 5th in the table with seven wins and seven losses.
Now confidence is high they will look to push on in the league.
Muirhead before looking forward paid tribute to everyone involved this season.
“A special thanks to everyone at the club for their continued support throughout this season and to all players who have worn a red and white shirt this season.”
Regardless of how the season finishes this first win of the season for Sefton Ladies will remain a special memory.
