Lucy Finch | We want to finish phase one on a high
Swansea City Women defender Lucy Finch insists her side will not ease off during their remaining phase one fixtures, despite already securing a top-four place ahead of this evening’s clash with Barry Town United Women at the Swansea.com Stadium.
The Swans achieved their objective of claiming a place in the Championship phase with two games to spare following last week’s victory over The New Saints Women, a significant moment after the disappointment of narrowly missing out last season.
Sunday’s meeting with Barry also presents another opportunity for the squad to play at the stadium, where they have produced a number of memorable performances in recent years, including victories over Cardiff City Women and Wrexham Women in front of the Swans faithful.
Finch is delighted that the squad have been able to achieve their primary objective with games to spare and believes maintaining togetherness will be key to success, regardless of the occasion or surroundings.
“The mood around camp is buzzing, as always. We never take any game lightly, and heading into the final games of phase one, we’re putting in the same level of effort as we did at the start of the season,” she said.
"We were really disappointed last year not to secure a top-four spot — everyone felt that as a group. The aim this season was to put that right, and to have it confirmed with two games to go is a huge achievement. That said, we’re approaching this weekend just like any other match, knowing we still need to give 100 per cent.
"Togetherness will be really important for us this weekend. There’s always the added noise and publicity that comes with playing at the stadium, but as long as we stick together, focus on our own game and don’t get caught up in the occasion, that’s the biggest thing for us.”
Sunday’s game will also be a special moment for Finch, who works as a teacher, with her students having the opportunity to watch her play at the stadium - something she believes is a really positive reflection of the growing profile and publicity around women’s football.
"It will be a really special occasion for me personally,” she added.
“My school has organised a trip to come and watch the game, and the opportunities that exist now to watch women’s football in stadiums are brilliant. It’s a special moment, and I think it’s something everyone in the squad - whether they’re starting or not - can really take pride in.”