Hourihan Highlights Manchester City Comparison

New Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Marie Hourihan believes there are similarities between the club and current Women’s Super League 1 leaders Manchester City, who she joined from on loan until the end of the season.

The 30-year-old will join up with Hope Powell’s team for the remainder of their FA WSL 2 campaign, and after being impressed by the club’s ambition to grow the women’s game, she drew comparisons between the Seagulls and her parent club.

She said, “There are definitely similarities between the clubs, especially with the way the training ground is set up and how everyone is integrated.

“You’re treated as footballer, rather than a female footballer, and I think that applies to both Manchester City and Brighton.

“Obviously with the progression that the club’s made and the infrastructure down here, it’s a fantastic club and an exciting time to be a part of it.

“It was definitely something that took my interest, and then once I came down to speak to Hope [Powell], I was very keen to join.

“They’ve done very well going into WSL2 - the club is clearly growing and moving in the right direction."

Hourihan also expressed her excitement to work with Albion first-team manager Hope Powell, and believes the team can mount a charge for the FA WSL 2 league title this season.

“Hope is the type of person that’s very ambitious and she wants to build a football club. She’s obviously got a pedigree as an international coach and she’s now come into club management.

“I was intrigued to speak to her and find out what her plans were. It’s an exciting time for the football club, but with Hope in charge as well, it’s going to be a well-driven team.

“I know the ambition is to win the league and go up as FA WSL 2 champions - I don’t see any reason why the team can’t achieve that this year.

“Hopefully I can have some effect on that. I’ve got a lot of experience now and believe I can bring my personality and strengths to the team.”