Brighton girls are ready for the step up

by Sheridan Robins

Brighton & Hove Albion may be dominating the headlines in the Championship but their female counterparts are also mounting a promotion push.

They boast an unbeaten start in the Women’s Premier League South, winning six of their opening seven matches.

Last season was one of disappointment for the Seagulls as they missed out on the league title to south-coast rivals Portsmouth in the final weeks of the campaign.

But they seem to have put that firmly behind them as they look to challenge for a Super League spot.

Brighton winger Charley Boswell has been at the club for ten years and it has a special place in her heart.

She said: “For me, personally, it means a lot to play for Brighton.

“My grandad was a season ticket holder and I always wanted to play for this team. Of course, I am going to say we want to get into the Super League, but so will every club. Otherwise there is no point in playing at this level.

“But, at Brighton, we are extremely lucky to have the support of the men’s club and the structure we have here is very professional. So far this season, it has been great as both teams are enjoying success.

Boswell on the ball for the Seagulls against Portsmouth (Photo courtesy of Brighton & Hove Albion)

“We are very close to the men’s side. They always know our results and we know theirs. The mood at the club is brilliant and, when we can, we all go to watch their games and they are doing fantastically.”

The Seagulls’ latest win came against the side that pipped them to the title last year.

With two late extra-time goals  in the Women’s Premier Cup, Brighton ran out 3-1 winners at Portsmouth to partly avenge last season’s conclusion.

The 24-year-old Boswell says the devastation is fuelling their fire this time around.

“We were all together when Portsmouth sealed the title, as our game got postponed,” she said. “It was so hard and we were all truly gutted, but we all went through it together.

“We all said we never wanted to experience it again and that has shown throughout this season.

“If we aren’t playing well, as soon as there is a break in play we all have a huddle and a chat about what we can improve.

“It really helps and we have confidence in each other. Last season, the men had a tough time, too, so it was difficult for the whole club. But we aren’t in competition and now we are both looking to progress.”

Brighton today travel to bottom side QPR looking to cement their spot at the top and add to their one-point advantage over second-placed Cardiff City.