Motherwell head coach Donald Jennow expressed delight at a winning start to life in SWPL1.
Report / Image: Motherwell FC
Kerry Montgomery’s second half screamer against Stirling University earned all three points for the women of steel, who were twice denied by the woodwork as they looked to extend their lead.
Jennow believes that a winning start will be a huge confidence boost and praised skipper Montgomery for her superb winning goal.
“To start with three points is very positive and reflects well on how quickly the group has come together,” Jennow said.
“There is always an element of uncertainty when starting a new season, so the win helps to boost confidence and trust within the squad.
“We were a bit hesitant to shoot in the first half so it was great to see Kerry take the shot on and then her ability to execute is why she’s so important to us.”
Despite getting off to the best possible start, Jennow is refusing to get carried away.
Instead, the ‘Well gaffer insists that the primary goal for the season is retaining their top flight status.
Motherwell romped to the SWPL2 title last season and have gone over a year without defeat on home soil.
“We need to win games to stay in this league,” he added.
“We have made the best possible start to that but I’m stating the obvious when I say one win isn’t enough.
“The earlier we can pick up enough points to make us safe, the sooner we can start to think about how we progress to the next level.”
The women of steel will play their home matches at Ravenscraig this season, but with resurfacing work ongoing at the venue, Fir Park hosted Sunday’s game.
Jennow felt that his team adapted to their surroundings and impressed on the big stage, though has stressed there’s still work to be done.
“Speaking selfishly, I love these opportunities,” the ‘Well boss said.
“It allows me to see which players thrive on the bigger stages and after a cagey start I thought everyone grew into their surroundings.
“We still have a lot of work to do but I firmly believe that, after today, I have a group that will relish the challenges we will face this year.
“We showed flashes of the type of football we are capable of but that level of performance needs to be sustained if we are going to have success this year.”
