Interviews

Phillips: 'A complete team performance'

Head coach delighted after Albion beat West Ham 1-0 to claim vital WSL victory.

By Bruce Talbot • 07 May 2023

By Kyle Hemsley
Melissa Phillips addresses the squad after our 1-0 win against West Ham.

Melissa Phillips hailed a 'complete team performance' after Albion beat West Ham 1-0 to move clear of danger in the WSL.

The head coach was delighted to see Kayleigh Green score her first goal of the season to make it back-to-back home wins which lifted Albion up to ninth in the table and five points clear of bottom club Reading, who occupy the relegation place.

“That group deserved that win,” she said. “We have been fighting and scrapping all season but the performances have been there. But there has also been a mentality shift and we got better as the game went on today. It was nice to see a complete 90-minute performance from the team.”

By Kyle Hemsley
Kayleigh Green begins her celebration after heading Albion in front.

It was also Albion’s first clean sheet in the league since March 2022 and Phillips was pleased with Albion’s defensive work.

“Defending is 100% about mentality, resilience and communication. I couldn’t be prouder of the group for the clean sheet," she added. "Everyone played their part exceptionally well. West Ham asked questions, but we managed our 18-yard box really well.

“It’s something we can continue to build on. Today’s win is a product of raising our standards both in a match and on the training ground. We managed key moments in the game really well.”

Albion are back in action at the Broadfield Stadium om Wednesday against Arsenal.