Elson lauds 'sense of togetherness' after Leeds victory

The winger scored a hat-trick in Sunday's FA Women's National League Division One North win at Coach Lane, ensuring that the Lady Magpies maintain pressure on league leaders Liverpool Feds.

"It is amazing for the owners to take time out of their busy schedules to watch us and see our hard work on the pitch," Elson said. "It gives us a sense of togetherness and a part of something bigger.

"It felt exciting to show them what we can do on the pitch against opponents in our league. It is good for our fans to see the relationship we have with the owners."

Elson's first-half treble came after Katie Barker's opener, before late goals from Georgina Spraggon and Becky Ferguson confirmed the three points for Langley's side.

"The importance of us all working together is key to our success," said Elson. "We all work for the same thing. We score goals as a team, not just as individuals."

And the contribution of youngsters Spraggon and Ferguson off the bench only highlights the depth of the Lady Magpies' squad, according to Elson.

"When they come on the pitch, they demonstrate what they are capable of," she said. "They bring added energy and for them to score is the least they deserve for the hard work they put in throughout the week."

In recent weeks, Langley's side have had to adapt due to the injuries of regular starters Georgia Gibson and Rachel Lee.

But despite missing the duo, Elson believes the United Women have stepped up and ensured that performance levels remain high.

She said: "We are missing two key players who add much quality to our team, but the players taking their spots deserved a chance to show what they can do.

"We all train hard all week and I believe we gave a strong performance and I think everyone stepped up."

Elson also issued individual praise for Barker and Erin Nelson. "Erin and Katie both played amazing," she said. "They both work so hard and are the reason we were able to create so many chances in the game.

"The consistent hard work for each other and the team deserves as much credit as those on the scoresheet."

And the winger is aiming to follow up the vital win with victory next weekend, when Langley's side host local rivals Norton & Stockton Ancients Ladies at Druid Park.

She said: "This big win against a team just below us gives us momentum to keep pushing towards that top spot.

"We are all buzzing for our next match. We treat every game like a big game and every three points is vital."

Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock/@Tyneside_NUWFC