Bethany England: “I feel much fitter and more confident” | OneFootball

Bethany England was pleased to get on the scoresheet once again on Sunday as her strike ensured we picked a point in our Barclays Women’s Super League clash against Brighton & Hove Albion.

After trailing to Elisabeth Terland’s opener in the 17th minute, our captain stepped up in the closing stages of the game at Brisbane Road to secure a 1-1 draw with the Seagulls, extending our unbeaten to six games in all competitions.

Ashleigh Neville, who was a second half substitute, delivered a cross into the centre of the box and Bethany got across her defender to send a looping effort over the goalkeeper, grabbing the equaliser in the 81st minute.

Our number nine was inches away from claiming the victory in injury time as her fierce effort, from around 20 yards out, was pushed onto the bar by Melina Loeck.

Speaking to SPURSPLAY after the game, Bethany reflected on the performance…

“We knew they were going to give us a tough game, they are a very tenacious, aggressive team and they showed that,” she said.

“I thought they were expectational good in the first and second balls, we needed to be better in the first half and, I think, we managed to find our way back into the game, especially the second half, I thought the substitutes came in and made a massive change for us, brought us lot of energy and got us on the front foot.

“Scoring is always great for me as a striker but, ultimately, I’m disappointed as I thought we could have brought more to the game and taken all three points but, if I’m being completely honest, I think a draw is a fair result for both teams.”

That goal against the Seagulls made it three on the bounce in WSL games – six in all competitions – and Bethany spoke about finding her confidence in front of goal once again.

“I think I have got a bit more confidence back,” she explained. “I know I was out for a long time and it would take some time to feel like myself again and, especially in the last month, I have felt like that.

“I feel much fitter and I feel much more confident, but I’m not actually happy with my performance but, obviously, getting on the scoresheet is good, so it’s progress.”

Watch - England's assessment of Seagulls stalemate