Simon says Millers must believe to ensure hard work pays off
Rotherham United Ladies manager Simon Darke says the rebuilding process at the club is well underway and is keen to ensure his side reap the rewards of a summer of hard work both on and off the field.
The Millers’ boss admits that he is under no illusions that his side face an uphill battle as they look to re-establish themselves in the WPL, but insists he has confidence in a group that are always looking to improve.
“After a raft of changes and only a handful of players remaining from last season, I am aware of the challenges that face the team this season,” Darke told the official matchday programme.
“However, the group have shown a really positive attitude and I’m confident that we will make huge improvements over the course of the season.
“I think it’s important as a footballer that you are always open to learning new things and constantly trying to be better than the last match.
“I am now looking to build a team that are going to stay together as a group for the long-term future.
“I have faith that the players we have brought together are going to build an excellent reputation for the club and in turn that will help build support and attract players.
“We will still be looking to make one or two additions but my main focus is to support the players at the club and ensure that they play to their full potential as individuals and as a team.”
Val delighted to return to new-look club
RULFC have secured the return to the club of a familiar face in Val Hoyle, who insists she is thrilled to be back on board with a revitalised team as the club’s new secretary.
Hoyle, who had been involved with the Millers Ladies’ setup previously, admits the challenge of joining a new and improved outfit was too good to turn down, and is relishing the season ahead despite defeat at Derby in the opening fixture.
"Following a very difficult period in the history of the club I found myself back involved as secretary,” she told the Millers’ official matchday programme.
“I’m delighted to be working with a new and enthusiastic committee, who are all working together to move forward.
“We have seen a lot of new faces and some old faces joining the club and that in itself has been challenging.
“Last Friday I was able to breathe a big sigh of relief as the last players were cleared to play in Sunday’s cup tie against higher division Derby County.
“Although we lost the game the ladies showed great passion and commitment and we can all look forward to the season which for us starts with the home tie against New Saints LFC.”
Under 16’s finish as runners-up in Girls Premier League Festival
On a positive note the Under 16s played in the Girls Premier League Festival at St George’s Park and finished as runners up, narrowly losing to Wigan on penalties.
The girls gave a superb account of themselves coming up against the likes of Crewe, Leicester, Sheffield United and Coventry.
The future is certainly looking bright, well done to Dave Horner and his coaching staff and squad on this fantastic achievement.
James Leggitt