Club news

Powell Takes Positives From Birmingham Defeat

By Jake Ketley • 19 September 2018

Hope Powell was disappointed with the result, but drew on the positives from Brighton & Hove Albion's 1-0 defeat against Birmingham City.

It’s the second 1-0 league defeat in a row for the team and Powell gave her opinion on where things didn’t quite click for them.

She said, “It took us a while to settle, I think there was a bit of nerves. 

“They dominated for most of the match, in the first-half especially, but as the game went on we grew more and more in confidence and got into the match more.

“We were a bit unfortunate again to concede a late goal in the first-half, we were hoping that we could go into the break at 0-0.

“Credit has to go to Birmingham though, their movement was very good, as was their passing."

Powell explained how she altered things at the break and commented on an improved second-half performance.

“We changed things tactically at half-time and towards the end we were really unlucky with the opportunity for Sophie Perry.

“I think we need to work on a couple of things, we need to keep the ball better, we need to find a pass better and we really need to take our opportunities at this level.

“Overall I’m pleased, not with the fact we’ve lost but with the intent, the fight and spirit the girls have shown. So now we dust ourselves off and go again.”

In another tight turnaround, Albion are next in action when they face Liverpool in the FA Women’s Super League and Powell looked ahead to the preparations for Sunday's match.

“The players will have the day off tomorrow and then we are in Friday for recovery and a light session, Saturday off and then we go again on Sunday, so it’s important we make sure everyone is healthy and the rest and recovery is right.

“They must refuel and get themselves mentally and physically ready for Sunday.”

Powell also had her own personal message for any supporters thinking about attending.

“I think a message to the fans from me would be to come and support the girls. They put a lot of effort in and relish the support. It lifts everybody.

“They want to play and showcase themselves as much as possible and in order to do that we’d really like people to come out and support. So if you can get there please come along and hopefully it will be a good day.”