Yeakey "so grateful" to have made her SSFC Women debut

Anna Yeakey has said she was “so grateful” to have made her debut for South Shields Women against Chester-le-Street Town Ladies.

The South Shields FC Women’s International Academy goalkeeper was brought on at half-time during the game on Sunday, January 26th, with the Mariners 2-0 up against what was an undefeated Cestrians outfit.

Shields ended up winning 2-1 and despite conceding early after the break, the lasses fully deserved a well-earned three points and she played a vital part in delivering that. 

“It was honestly such a great feeling to be back on the pitch,” she reflected. 

“Some nerves for sure but good nerves. 

“I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity and overall it was a really great experience. 

“The team was very encouraging and supportive of me which was super encouraging given it was my first appearance.” 

The game presented a unique set of challenges with a host of substitutions being made throughout and despite a late penalty miss from the hosts, Yeakey believes the team earned that win. 

She continued: “I think, overall, the team showed up to play and it showed in the result. 

“The goal was very unlucky but I’m super proud of the girls for pulling out the win - it was well deserved.”

After a winless run of four in the NERWFL Premier Division, there can be no underestimating the significance of a win like that in terms of boosting the team’s morale looking ahead. 

The lasses play host to Hull United Women this Sunday, February 9th before matching up against Chester-le-Street again in the DCFA Women’s Cup semi-final a week later. 

“I definitely think this win will build great confidence for the team going forward,” she agreed.

“We showed what we are truly made of as a team and I’m hoping we can carry that same confidence into the next match.” 

Although the lasses weren’t in action last week, they made the most of their time away from action with some team bonding, which undoubtedly went down well with Yeakey and the squad. 

She finished: “The team bonding was super fun! 

“I definitely think it was a great opportunity to get to know some of the girls a little bit better!”

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)