Gibson: We are only getting stronger

The number ten put in another impressive display against the South Yorkshire club as Katie Barker's injury-time goal sealed the three points for Becky Langley's side, lifting them to joint-top of the FA Women's National League Division One North.

"It always feels good to beat a team that you are close to in the league and that are contending for the top of the table," said Gibson after beating Barnsley, who were one point above Newcastle going into the match.

"It's important to take points off all teams, but especially those around you, to close gaps or open them up."

The Lady Magpies dominated proceedings at Druid Park, and after creating many chances and bombarding the visitors' box throughout, Gibson felt United were good value for the three points.

"It was a massive relief (to get the goal at the end)," she said. "We could feel the momentum massively on our side, and we could feel a goal was coming.

"We left it late, but to get the goal right at the death felt really good."

The win followed Newcastle's 12-0 triumph over Gateshead Rutherford Ladies in the FA Cup last week, and following two positive results, the midfielder feels that things are starting to click for Langley's side.

"It has taken time, but as the season has gone on we have grown week on week as a team and squad," she said.

"There were a lot of new faces at the start of the season, and they have settled in well. It's about maintaining and improving our performance each week to ensure we get the outcomes we want.

"There's still room for improvement personally and collectively and that is what we will work on each week in training.

"Our team spirit is good. We continue to get to know each other more both on and off the pitch, each week, and that will only make us stronger as a unit as the season goes on.

"It's the tightest the league has ever been, so it's about taking one game at a time and hopefully the correct outcome will come."

Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock/@Tyneside_NUWFC