Hat-trick heroes Barker and Elson react to Newcastle United Women's perfect start to the season

Both Katie Barker and Kacie Elson recorded hat-tricks as Becky Langley's side cruised to a dominant victory, continuing their perfect start in the FA Women’s National League.

Reacting to the triumph, Barker - who ended the game with four goals - said: "I'm so happy to have got a hat-trick. I'm absolutely over the moon with my performance."

Elson shared these sentiments, describing her own treble as "an amazing achievement."

The pair have formed a formidable partnership, and they both believe that their performances are boosted by one another.

"We love to help each other score and have played together at college, university, and now at Newcastle United Women," said Elson. "To be a part of each other's success is a dream."

Wednesday night's success followed the Lady Magpies' resounding 6-0 win against FC United of Manchester in their season opener and Barker reiterated the importance of building momentum early in the season.

She said: "Continuing on from FC United of Manchester was hugely important. We've set clear targets for this season and in the first two games we have scored 13 goals and only conceded one. We need to keep pushing all season to maintain these high standards."

Fans were unable to attend many Newcastle Women games last season due to Covid-19. With the match against Alnwick Town Ladies not having these restrictions, Elson championed the unbelievable support that the squad received.

"The atmosphere is always amazing at Druid Park," said Elson. "It felt surreal to be back under the lights with our fans supporting us."

Barker shared Elson's thoughts, declaring: "There's nothing better than having fans back and pushing us on to victory."

Pre-season for Becky Langley's squad was certainly one of change, with many incomings and outgoings. Despite this, Elson believes that this Newcastle Women's squad is well placed for success this season.

She said: "With our pre-season record and great start to the league I feel like this year's squad has strength in every area. Every player is a credit to play alongside, and we all drive each other to be better. If we take every game as it comes, it'd be a credit to each of us if we were promoted."

Looking ahead to the weekend, Langley’s side travel to face Stockport County on Sunday (kick-off 2pm BST), hoping to make it three consecutive league victories.

Both Barker and Elson reiterated the need for the squad to stay focused going into this fixture.

Elson said: "We take every game as it comes, but we should be pushing for a clean sheet and to keep the goals going in."

Barker added: "The first two games of the season fill us with confidence going into this game, but there are still elements of our game we want to perfect."

Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock/@Tyneside_NUWFC