Simon Parker hails 3-1 lift as Saints begin tough run | OneFootball

Saints Women beat Crystal Palace 3-1, a timely boost at the start of a demanding sequence that leaves them five points off the promotion play-off.

As reported by Daily Echo, head coach Simon Parker, in his first season, wants his side to stay in the race and sees the next three fixtures against Newcastle United, Bristol City and Birmingham as pivotal. All three are pushing for the top three, with extra promotion places to the WSL available this season.

Parker felt the game plan was carried out and said the Sunderland display a week earlier was below where they want to be. He viewed these opening three points in the run as a major lift and hopes the performance helps bring supporters back to St Mary’s.

He praised the backing during spells under pressure and believes confidence can grow, while accepting inconsistency has crept in at times.

Hat-trick forward Ellie Brazil echoed the message, urging Saints to sustain their levels across a run of games and to keep making St Mary’s a difficult venue for visitors.

She said they must own the elements that did not work against Palace, while recognising the good parts. Brazil added they need to replicate that approach over the next four to six matches against strong opponents.

Source: Daily Echo