Albion Women midfielder Phoebe Warner says their performance against Wolves in the Birmingham County FA Challenge Cup semi-final is one they can be proud of.
Warner played a key part in Simran Jhamat’s opener, closely followed up by Lucy Newell’s header before the Baggies were pegged back and defeated in a penalty shootout.
And despite their semi-final exit, the 23-year-old believes there’s plenty to build on as the Baggies turn their focus back towards the league.
She said: “It was really gutting. We had a strong start, going 2-0 up, it was an amazing feeling starting so quickly.
“We managed to hold off their pressure for a large proportion of the game. Then with it going to penalties at the end, it’s just really disappointing.
“We shocked Wolves. I don’t think anyone expected the change in shape and the confidence that came with it.
“I’m proud of the girls and how we adapted to the formation. How we really just took the game by the scruff of the neck was impressive.
“We were all really up for it, any Derby game is exciting. You could tell we were up for it in those opening few minutes.
“The passion that we played with was great. I was so proud of the way we played.”
The midfielder had a huge hand in the first goal, which was scored inside 30 seconds and dispatched her penalty confidently – something Warner is always looking to improve.
“For the first goal, I saw Delphi [Cole] she got the flick on to Simran [Jhamat]. It was just a great team goal.
“That’s something we’ve been working on and to see it come out in a game and come out like that is brilliant.
“I think penalties are something that as I’ve got a bit older I’ve felt more confident with. If you’d have asked be five years ago I wouldn’t have taken one.
“I just know to pick my spot, put my laces through it and hope for the best.”
The Baggies are next in action on Sunday, March 3, where they face Huddersfield Town in the FA Women’s National League North.
“It’s important to have time to reflect. Everyone will be gutted after today.
“We’ll switch back onto the league quickly, we’ve got some important games coming in the league. Getting three points against Huddersfield would be a great way to bounce back.”