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Walsh: We deserved point against Chelsea

Goalkeeper was in inspired form against the league leaders on Sunday.

By Luke Nicoli • 25 January 2022

By Kyle Hemsley
Megan Walsh richly deserved her Player of the Match award against Chelsea.

Goalkeeper Megan Walsh felt Albion’s defensive determination was key to picking up a valuable point against title-chasing Chelsea. 

Walsh put in a Player of the Match display with a number of vital saves, most notably from Fran Kirby and Beth England at the end of each half, but was quick to point out that it was a real team effort that stemmed Albion’s six-game losing streak. 

“The team deserved it today,” she said. “We’d been on a run of poor performances but we put the effort in and we deserved it. We were happy with the defensive job we were doing, what we’d prepared for, and we got that right today.” 

Walsh kept the scoreline level when she held her nerve to thwart Kirby who was through on goal. Then, as the minutes ebbed away in the second half, she saved England’s downward header from a Pernille Harder cross – just two of a number of important saves. 

“I remember the one in the first half from Fran Kirby,” she recalled. “I was coming out to the ball and as I was so far out of my goal, I thought she might go over the top.  

“I thought she was going to chip me, so I was thankful she kept it low; and towards the end I got something on the header from Beth England. I don’t want to have to make the saves, but it’s important I do!” 

Next up is another big challenge against Arsenal on Thursday night and Walsh is looking forward to the challenge. 

“We’ve come together today as a team and we can do it again on Thursday, so bring it on.”