It’s now just over a year since Naoisha McAloon arrived on English shores and put pen to paper on a contract with Durham Women.
Since then, the stopper has become a firm favourite – helping the club to a first-ever penalty shootout win against Sheffield United earlier this season before following that up with more heroics as we sprung a shock to beat Manchester United.
And with that anniversary now having been chalked-off, Laura Smith caught up with McAloon ahead of the visit of Sheffield United to discuss a variety of subjects ahead of today’s game…
What have your thoughts been on the team’s performance since starting back up again in the New Year?
“We obviously had a decent start in the FA Cup with a 1-0 win, so we got the job done there.
“It hasn’t quite gone to plan. We’ve had a few disappointing results, but we’re hoping to bounce back and build on recent results.
“Hopefully we’ll get a clean sheet today [against Sheffield United] and start getting the performances and results that we’re looking for.”
On a personal note, what are you hoping to achieve in the second half of the season?
“I’m hoping to get as many games as I can.
“I’d like to stay in there and rack up a few clean sheets, both as a team and personally.
“I hope to add a few more from now on.”
How have you been finding it at Durham since you signed your contract a year ago?
“It’s been a memorable year and I’ve loved every minute of it.
“I love the girls and what’s happening at the club, so we keep on looking to grow as a team to continue getting better and keep on pushing.”
How have you found the transition to full-time?
“The transition to full-time has been brilliant, we’re loving it.
“Being in every day, it’s a dream.
“I’m really enjoying it and we’re getting into the flow of things now. It’s been brilliant.”
The support this season has been important both at home and away, hasn’t it?
“It’s been absolutely brilliant.
“The fans we have are, I think, one of the best. They always cheer us on and the atmosphere they bring is brilliant.
“Hearing them on the side lines really pushes us on.”
