West Ham United Ladies general manager Karen Ray was thrilled with her players’ passion in the 6-2 win over Cardiff, saying she couldn’t have asked for any more from her team.
The Hammers made it two consecutive victories in all competitions on Sunday as two goals apiece from Rosie Kmita and Ellie Zoepfl, as well as finishes by Kelly Wealthall and Chloe Burr, saw the Irons run out 6-2 victors in south Wales.
It was a dominant showing from the Ladies and Ray is delighted with how her players answered her call for them to stand up and be counted.
And, with the general manager elated by her side’s efforts on the pitch, the three points earned was the icing on the cake.
“Today was a triumph that the players deserved,” Ray told whufc.com. “I called for special players to step up for this game and can honestly say that I was not disappointed. To travel four hours and dominate a game is not easy, but they showed true character.
Today was a triumph that the players deserved. As a coach, you can't ask for more than passion, accountability and commitment.
Karen Ray
“As a coach, you can’t ask for more than passion, accountability and commitment. The three points are just a huge bonus!”
The result puts West Ham eighth in the Premier League Southern Division and interim head coach Ray has hailed the showing of her attacking players.
Amber Stobbs registered four assists in a brilliant individual performance and her efforts, along with each of the forward players, have been praised.
Ray continued: “The last few games I have commended our defenders on solid performances, but today the forward players really deserve a mention.
“Amber Stobbs showed real class today and I am delighted with her performance in a new position. Contributing four quality assists, and having the freedom to link up brilliantly higher up the pitch with Rosie, Ellie and Kelly allowed us to secure the three points.
“Having the solidity of our captain Amy Cooper gives the players confidence to attack and the desire to relentlessly drive at the opposition.”
Ray admitted she will take a look at the goals her side conceded in training this week, but ultimately does not want to take away from a fantastic team performance over the weekend.
“The perfectionist in me will look at the two goals conceded and work to rectify those mistakes in training this week, but I cannot fault the players' mentality
“The intensity in training has been inspirational. The competitive environment that we have created over the past month really showed today and I am proud of everyone involved.”