Bees goalkeeper Megen Lynch put in an inspired player of the match performance as her side secured a bonus point Conti Cup victory over Charlton Athletic on Sunday.
Lynch made a string of fine saves to keep the scores level, before making two decisive saves in the penalty shootout as the Bees went onto win 4-2 on spot-kicks.
Speaking to the WSL website, Lynch shared her delight at being to help her team to victory.
“I’m known for penalty saves unfortunately for the other team! I love penalties and trying to read where the play is going. I look at the player – where they’ve looked, if they’re looking at the ball, their run-up – I just assess it and then dive and hope it’s gone that way.”
“I enjoy games where I’m busy. This is my second game back from a yearlong injury so it’s great to be back out there, putting in a good performance and feeling like I’ve played my part for the team.”
“The way the game was going – we went down to 10 and at the end, they put five upfront – so to get it to penalties and win was fantastic.”
Lee Burch’s side defended well throughout the game, despite being reduced to ten players in the 60th minute as Merrick Will was sent off for a second bookable offence.
Lynch praised the efforts of her outfield teammates for their resilience in making sure they took the game to a penalty shootout and securing that crucial bonus point.
“It was a very tough game, in tough conditions, we dug in in the second half. I think it’s the sign of a great team, to dig in and make sure you take the points”
“With this team, the sky is the limit, every player brings something different to the team, the next two fixtures will be tough but I know this team are capable”
“I’m absolutely buzzing to make my home debut, the girls have been so welcoming, it’s a fantastic place to be.”