Club news

Barton Confident But Focused On Task Ahead

By Kieran Cleeves • 18 April 2018

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Kirsty Barton stressed that although the team have recorded some positive results of late, their confidence is matched with a clear focus on the next game, ahead of tonight’s FA WSL2 match against London Bees.

The Seagulls have strung together four consecutive victories, most recently beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at Culver Road, but Barton remains grounded ahead of their trip to The Hive this evening.

She said, ”It's going to be a very tough game. They gave us a hard match at home but every game is tough in this league."

“Our form has filled us with confidence, but once one weekend has gone, we put it to the back of our mind and focus on the next game.

"Every game you want to pick up the three points, but you can’t afford to get too over confident.”

"If we prepare for every game like we do - go out and play as we can, look to improve each week - then there's no reason why we shouldn't pick up the three points.”

Hope Powell’s team occupy third position in the league table with seven games remaining, and Barton has been pleased with the improvements the team has made throughout the campaign.

"The team has developed massively this season. It's been really good to get new players in and it’s built the depth of the squad.

"It gives us that bit of competition which is always healthy, because everyone wants to play.

“We've come a long way since the beginning of the season and when Hope came in. It's been a good season for us.”

Albion will play their football in the revamped FA WSL1 after their tier one application was granted in December last year, and Barton is hopeful of continuing her journey with the Seagulls into their first campaign at that level.

"I really hope I'm here next season. I've been at the club eight years now, so Brighton is in my heart.

"My priority lies with Brighton but we don't know about next season yet and what's going on. We've just got to focus on this season for now."