Club news

Natkiel Takes Confidence Into Chelsea Clash

By Kieran Cleeves • 14 August 2018

Brighton & Hove Albion forward Kate Natkiel expressed her excitement ahead of Sunday’s FA WSL Continental Tyres League Cup match against Chelsea, and believes her team-mates can take confidence from last season’s meeting.

Hope Powell’s team lost 3-0 to last season’s FA Women’s Super League champions, but Natkiel believes the Seagulls are better prepared for the challenge this time around, ahead of their first season in the top flight.

She said, “That game was good when we were in the league below, just to test ourselves, and even though they beat us, I think we showed that we can compete at this level.

“It was a positive performance from us - having built on that throughout pre-season, hopefully we can improve on our last result and win the game.

“It’s good that we’ve got them first - no team has had the chance to get into their stride. Every team is starting afresh this season and we’ve just gone into the top league.

“They won the league last season and also got to the Champions League semi-finals, so it’s always exciting to play against teams like that.”

Albion play twice in the Continental Tyres League Cup before opening their league season against Bristol City, and Natkiel reflected on the team’s first pre-season as full-time footballers.

“Pre-season has been really good and we’ve had some tough friendlies along the way. We’ve shown that we can compete at the highest standard.

“It’s been hard work but fun at the same time. I’m really looking forward to Sunday and it’s a good chance to test ourselves against one of the best teams in the country.

“Everyone has been waiting for this game for a long time. The excitement has been building within the camp. It will be great to play against high-calibre opposition.”

Natkiel also highlighted her excitement ahead of next month’s home fixture against Liverpool at the Broadfield Stadium, after the Women’s Super League match was selected for live television coverage on BT Sport.

“It will be the first time that Brighton’s women’s team have ever played live on television. I’ve never played a game on television either, so it’s very exciting and will be a great experience.

“When you’re a footballer, you want to be playing on television and in front of a lot of people. It just shows how far the women’s game and Brighton have come along.

“Growing up, that’s all you ever want to do - play at the highest level you possibly can. For the team and personally, it will be good to test ourselves against the best players in the world.

“It’s not just English players that are over here, there are also players from all over the world. I’m definitely excited for that challenge.”

Supporters can see every kick of every home league match by purchasing a season ticket. Prices are just £45 for adults, £35 for over-65s and under-21s, £30 for under-18s and £10 for under-10s.
 
To purchase a season ticket please visit BrightonAndHoveAlbion.com/Tickets or call the Albion booking line on 0844 327 1901 (calls cost seven pence per minute plus your network access charge).