Lots of clubs describe themselves as “family clubs” and consider themselves tight-knit groups – but Anna Filbey says Watford prove it every day as they seek promotion from the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier.
The Golden Girls came back from a goal down against Plymouth Argyle on Saturday to win 3-1 and keep up the pressure on unbeaten Bournemouth at the top of the table.
And Filbey reveals to SheKicks.net that there was a special spectator who made the difference in what she describes as “one of the biggest games of the season”.
“Meg [Megan Chandler], our captain – she got injured and is suffering from a little injury,” she says. “She drove four and a half hours in the morning to make it and be there and I would say she was a pivotal point in it. She did a massive speech at half-time when we were 1-0 down, and we went out and managed to win 3-1 for her, so it was really nice.”
She adds: “It was great to have her there. She’s such a big personality and person to have in the changing room, so she really did make the difference.”
Watford are now one point behind Bournemouth – who snatched a last-gasp equaliser to take a draw against Hashtag United. Some would prefer to have the points in the bag and look to keep their noses ahead for the rest of the season, but Filbey is content to be chasing rather than leading from the front.
“I think it’s a better position to be in. It’s a little bit less pressure. I think it’s always easier to chase than try and stay ahead. We’ll relish the position we’re in and hopefully we can do it.”
Anna Filbey: Watford has a great community
Filbey had a challenging 2025 with several months out through injury – but on the up side it meant she had time to spend on some of her community work, including becoming an ambassador for West Herts Hospitals Charity.
“We’ve got such a great community,” she says. “To be able to get out in it and just help in any way I can – I love it.”
She is now raring to go in 2026 as she seeks to help Watford back to tier two – and also to get herself back into international contention with Wales.
“Last year we had a few results which put it out of our hands quite early. But this year, [I want to] stay fit and help the team in any way I can – and then hopefully we get the promotion.
“[I want to] focus on my club football and performing and hopefully then rewards come after that.”
