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Defender Hayley Nolan played an important role on Sunday [2 April], as London City Lionesses shut the door on Charlton Athletic to secure a 1-0 win in the Barclays Women's Championship.
The Republic of Ireland international was a force to be reckoned with against the Addicks, limiting the influence of in-form forward Melissa Johnson in a must-win London Derby.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the final whistle sounded at Princes Park, Nolan was thrilled with the victory.
"It was perfect," the 26-year-old said of the team's performance. "We came into the game to get three points and came away with them. It was a great team performance from the first minute until the last minute and didn't give in.
"Charlton set up very well and made it difficult for us. But we kept pushing, got the goal, and defended well to keep the clean sheet."
When asked if she was pleased to have kept Johnson quiet, Nolan added: "As I said, they've scored a lot of goals recently and, as a defensive unit, we didn't want to concede and knew that she is vital for their attack. We're happy with how it went today.
"We kept a lot of clean sheets at the start of the season, we wanted to record another one today and we're pleased to have got there."
Hayley Nolan on Atlanta Primus and Shanade Hopcroft:
Question: In terms of your teammates, did anyone stand out with their performance today?
Atlanta scored a crucial goal for us and is a big player playing well in big moments for us. I think 'Lants had a great game; I also think that Shanade Hopcroft is the engine in that midfield and doesn't get the credit she deserves. It's between them for me!
Hayley Nolan on the final stretch of the season:
Question: What are your thoughts heading into the final weeks of the campaign?
It's open, there are three games left, and we need to keep pushing to get the maximum number of points. It's a tight league, so we'll have to wait and see what happens.
Hayley Nolan on the international break:
Question: Excited for the international break and the Republic of Ireland's camp in the United States?
It's really exciting. I'm obviously delighted to be called up again and think it's a great honour to be in the Irish team to play against America. When I was growing up, I loved watching the USWNT, so I'm really excited to play against them.
Question: Grace Neville played against them recently with New Zealand, have you asked her for any tips!?
Honestly, I did! She just said to keep the defensive line tight and to keep talking to one another!
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