Rodriguez "super ecstatic" with SSFC Women's cup win against Sunderland West End

Desiree Rodriguez made headlines for South Shields Women with her brace against Sunderland West End Ladies at the weekend.

It took just 58 seconds from the moment she came on during the first-half to when she rolled the ball into the back of the net.

The first of two finishes by her in the DCFA Women’s Challenge Cup Quarter-Final tie, it played a significant part in the team's success, to which Rodriguez was pleased with how things went.

“We’re all super ecstatic with how we played on Sunday!” she exclaimed.

“We connected really well and worked hard as a team. 

“We’re ready to build on that and keep getting results.”

The South Shields FC Women’s International Academy player won the Player of the Match award because of it - her first for the First Team and second for the season - which was “an amazing feeling” according to her.

She continued: “Yes, it was an amazing feeling!

“Coming on I just wanted to make an impact and I wouldn’t have been able to do that without my teammates.”

Sunday’s win meant that Shields advanced to the Semi-Final of the County Cup, where they will host Durham Cestria on Sunday, February 15th.

With the team being just two games away from lifting silverware, Rodriguez admitted that winning a trophy is one of her objectives for the season, which she hopes to make a reality.

“Winning a trophy is definitely an ambition and a goal of all of ours,” she said.

“We just have to keep showing up, working hard, and playing our football.”

And with a passionate support from “near and far” who could make all the difference, she finally wanted to highlight the amazing backing the team has received, not only at Harton Welfare, but across the world too.

Rodriguez finished: “We appreciate all of our fans and you all really give us that support we need. 

“We feel the love from near and far! 

“Thank you all for all the support!”

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)