Liverpool Ladies: Beard Praises Ladies' Effort

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Liverpool Ladies manager Matt Beard has today praised his side's effort throughout the season after the Reds managed to retain their Women's Super League title in dramatic fashion last week.
After Chelsea Ladies and Birmingham City both dropped points on a dramatic final day, Beard’s side were able to capitalise after beating Bristol Academy 3-0 to win the WSL for the second consecutive season.
Despite the Uefa Women’s Champions League exit to Swedish outfit Linkopings, the Reds manager has thanked his players and staff for their efforts throughout what has been a testing season for the reigning WSL champions.
Beard said; “It has been an unbelievable season for us culminating in the extraordinary WSL title victory last week. If someone would have said at the start of the season we would have a chance, albeit an outside one, of retaining the league going into the final day I would have taken that all day.
“The players’ commitment and togetherness all season has been crucial for us. We have had to overcome a number of setbacks throughout the season with a staggering amount of injuries to contend with. But fair play to the whole squad, everybody stepped up to the plate and proved what a quality squad of players we have.
“I cannot praise the players enough this season. It has been very difficult at times, but to retain the WSL trophy is a fantastic achievement. I look back at our final three league games which epitomises the never say die attitude of the group.
“We beat Birmingham City with a moment of magic from Fara Williams followed by a 92nd minute equaliser from Gemma Davison away to Arsenal. To then beat Bristol Academy so comprehensively on the final day, were we produced some of our best football of the season, highlights what a special team this is.”
On his side’s exit from the Uefa Women’s Champions League, manager Beard said; “Thursday night was a massive learning curve for us. Linkopings are a quality side who play some fantastic football and thoroughly deserved to progress to the last 16.
“Although we didn’t perform anywhere near our best, they played some outstanding football and showed why they are always towards to the top of the Swedish league.
“The fact that we managed to beat them in the first leg highlights what a quality side we have here at Liverpool and can give the players confidence going into the competition next season.”
Beard also praised the support that his side has received throughout the season, adding; “I would personally like to thank all of the supporters that have travelled home and away to support the team this season.
“The backing we have received all season has been phenomenal and I can assure you that it definitely doesn’t go unnoticed by the players or coaching staff.
“Over in Sweden we also had tremendous backing with a number of Swedish based Liverpool supporters attending the game which was absolutely fantastic and highlights the stature of this fantastic Club.”
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