SSFC Women stars share the spotlight after West End win

South Shields Women launched an incredible comeback last night as they thrashed Sunderland West End Ladies 5-1 at a wet and windy Washington Hub.

We caught up with some of the lasses to talk through the main points after that win sent the Mariners through to the NERWFL League Cup Semi-Final.

A dream first start! 

Demi Pine, the top scorer for the Reserve Team this season with eight goals to her name, showed why she deserved to make the step up to the First Team.

Her hat-trick completed the comeback from 1-0 down, which helped the team to go on and score two more goals.

“I'm over the moon I got the chance to start for the First Team and get three goals for them," Pine said.

"I'm happy to help them get through to the Semi-Final, which will be a tough game but we go again!"

One goalkeeper in defence…

Kristina Simpson also made the step up from the Reserve Team and she was rewarded with her first start too.

Typically a goalkeeper, Simpson wasn’t one to complain when she was told her role would instead be in defence.

“Yeah I’m feeling good,” she shared afterwards.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to come up and play with the girls.

“I feel like we all came together and played our game that then led us to victory over West End.” 

… and another in attack! 

Following Sunday’s cameo outfield appearance, Anna Yeakey started up top for the Mariners and she almost bagged herself a goal at the end! 

“Quite honestly I felt more confident this time around considering I had played with the IA [SSFC Women’s International Academy] as striker the day before,” Yeakey reflected.

“I found it to be really fun, even though it’s not my preferred or most comfortable position.

“I was happy to help the team and glad the team has that level of trust in me.

“Hopefully I’ll score next time!” 

Wearing the armband with pride! 

The captain’s armband went to Jen Wootten, who characteristically put in a resilient shift at centre back as her leadership inspired the whole team to turn things around.

She reacted: “I was incredibly proud to captain the team last night.

“I always try to be a positive leader in the squad and I’m happy I was trusted with the responsibility.

“I’m super proud of how everyone came together last night, with players playing out of position and players coming up from the Reserve Team to put on a top performance.”

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto).