READING FC WOMEN’S manager Liam Gilbert praised his team’s ‘exceptional’ attitude as they extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to four matches.
In their final game of 2023, the Royals ended the year on a positive note by taking another step away from the danger zone.
“Having not played a competitive fixture for three to four weeks, and then to have three games in the space of a week, I have nothing but the utmost praise for the girls,” said Gilbert.
“I asked them before the game yesterday to make sure they don’t walk off the pitch without knowing they’ve given their everything for the team and they did just that.
“I’d say it’s what they’ve showed in each of the last three games.
“And it’s not just the 11 players out on the pitch, it’s also the ones that the fans may not get to see for whatever reason.
“The attitude around training is exceptional, all looking to drive us forward, and if we adopt these same principles into the second half of the season, we can really enjoy what’s to come.”
Gilbert believes that he has seen signs of improvement in his side over the last month, but has challenged them to turn draws into wins.
He continued: “You’re seeing better connectivity across the pitch, more purpose when on the ball, and as a collective we’ve got more confident in our abilities.
“We cannot afford to be complacent, we know the situation in the league table. There are a lot of points to play for and we need to start maximising our performances.
“We’ve only lost one more game than Birmingham City, who are top, but we’ve drawn far too many games.
“I think there’s many reasons. We drew a couple at the start when we had just arrived, then we’ve had some unfortunate injuries and this week has been the first where we’ve had close to a full squad, and the results are telling.
“This is the platform for how we kick on and the standards we must now meet.
“In those final two or three minutes, the fans were brilliant. You can really header them and they help drag the team out of difficult moments and spur us on as we go forward.
“I want to thank them. Since we’ve come through the door they’ve got behind us and I’m so grateful.”
