Reaction: Ruiz delighted as Albion claim first win of the season

Main Club Sponsor

TICKETS

SHOP

Albion beat Charlton Athletic 4-0 in their opening league-phase match in the Players Cup.

Bruce Talbot

2026-09-23T22:00+01:00

Arturo Ruiz was delighted after Albion secured a 4-0 win over Charlton for his first win as head coach.

Head coach Arturo Ruiz was delighted after Albion secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Charlton in the Players Cup on Wednesday.

A heavily rotated side with seven changes put on a dominant display, with Olaug Tvedten scoring twice alongside goals from Caitlin Hayes and Sophie Peskett.

“I'm really, really happy with the result because, in my opinion, we have deserved it,” Ruiz said.

“I think it was a pretty similar game to Sunday. The big difference is the result. It gives all of the team a lot of confidence. We're looking forward to keeping going.”

Despite making seven changes to his starting line-up, Ruiz was thoroughly impressed by how seamlessly Albion adapted and controlled the tempo.

“It's one of the most positive things because a lot of the players wanted to demonstrate their value,” Ruiz added.

“I already know it because I've seen them training really hard, and I feel really confident with all the players.

"I hope that they keep working like this because that is what is going to keep our standard really high - by being competitive during the week and every single opportunity that we give in games, they make the most of it.”

Sophie Peskett takes to the skies after scoring her first goal for the club. 📷Kyle Hemsley

Tvedten was a standout performer, marking her start with a brace and missing a penalty. However, Ruiz was quick to highlight her overall contribution beyond the stats.

“The most important thing is that out of all the actions that she made, most of them were really positive.

“You can score two goals and do a bad game. But she did a great, great game like her teammates, so I'm really happy for her and for all of them.”

Defensively, Brighton were excellent, limiting Charlton to just two shots all game.

“Defending is the key for us because if you defend very well, that means that you will have a lot of time with the ball, and that's really key for us to feel confidence,” said Ruiz.

“Today all the team, not only the defenders and the keeper, were really strong. It's really important for us not to concede pretty much any chances.”