Lily Crosthwaite was the latest Durham Women player to hit a significant appearance landmark this week.

The winger made her 50th senior outing for the Blues during Wednesday’s penalty victory over Sunderland in the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup – having initially made her debut in the same competition back in 2020 during a 5-2 win over Coventry United.

And the significance of the milestone wasn’t lost on Crosthwaite when we sat down with her to reflect on the achievement.

“It’s massive,” she said.

“When I was speaking to some of the girls and they said it was coming up, I couldn’t believe the fact it’s 50 already.

“It feels a bit surreal but I’m buzzing and super grateful for 50 opportunities to show what I can do and I feel super lucky.”

The penalty win in the River Wear Derby – which gave Durham a bonus point after a 2-2 draw in 90 minutes – was the culmination of a fine second half showing.

And Crosthwaite was pleased to see how the side reacted to defeat against the Black Cats last weekend.

“The weekend happened and we weren’t pleased with the performance and knew we had more to give,” she admitted.

“We wanted to show that on Wednesday and in the second half we showed the proper fight we wanted.

“There was a massive impact from the subs and a shift from the girls, and then to get the bonus point on penalties was massive for us.

“It’s a good lift going into the weekend.”

The youngster’s 51st appearance could come against Sheffield United on Sunday, as Durham head to Bramall Lane looking for a vital three points in the Barclays Women’s Championship.

But with the Blades having picked up some encouraging results of late, Crosthwaite knows another big test is in store.

“We know with every team we’ll face in this league that they’ll be a challenge,” said the 21-year-old.

“They’ve had a good spell of games recently and it’ll be a challenge, but the girls are up for it.

“We want to show what we can do and implement what we’ve learned from the last two games.”

Durham will once again be backed by a bumper away support in South Yorkshire – something the players know can be key.

“They’ve been so loud every game this season,” said Crosthwaite.

“To see the distance they have to travel for away games and to still see them is massive for us.

“It really gives us that boost when we need it.”