Nuneaton Town avoided defeat for only the second time on Sunday in the Premier League Northern Division, getting out of the drop zone with a 3-1 success against Huddersfield Town. We spoke with Nuneaton captain Jodie McGuckin.
SK: Was the match one in which you thought you could end a losing run?
JM: Most definitely after looking at the table and seeing their current position, we were all determined to get something from the match. Joe (manager) had also watched highlights and made comments in our pre-game as to what we were to look out for.
SK: Can you describe your goals?
JM: The first goal came very quickly, in fact I think it was the 3rd minute. We took a long throw which they struggled to deal with and Kirsty Deacon was there to react.
The second goal came from the left, a curling ball from Kirsty Deacon into Kayleigh Steele’s path, who then squared it to the edge of the box for Nicola Foskett to slot away calmly.
The third goal, Nicola Foskett broke down the right on the counter attack, crossed the ball into Sarah Rowles who placed the ball back across goal, leaving the keeper with no chance.
SK: Having lost all but one league game previously, how did it feel to be not one but two goals up?
JM: A little nerve-racking to be honest. During the season we have always been behind so had no pressure at all. This time it was all in our hands.
SK: Where any nerves apparent when Huddersfield halved the deficit?
JM: I don’t think we panicked at all. At the end of the day this game was always going to be won with heart and desire. We knew what we had to do and we wanted it more.
SK: Were you content to limit the Division’s top scorer to just a set-piece goal?
JM: Our defenders were aware they had the top goal scorer [Emily Heckler] playing. But to be honest you wouldn’t have known who she was watching the game and they definitely kept her quiet.
SK: How crucial are the three remaining games against the bottom two?
JM: Every game we play now is crucial. We can hopefully gain some momentum and not have any more injuries along the way. We must capitalise and start getting some well-needed points.
Images by clivejonespr.com and NTLFC
SHE KICKS – the online community for women’s football
