Laura Smith caught-up with midfielder Olivia Bramley ahead of the visit of Sheffield United in the Barclays Women’s Championship…
How are you settling in so far?
“Really good. It’s a really good group of girls and as a collective the girls have been really welcoming and have introduced me to the league, Durham’s identity, how we play and the values we hold. That keeps things to a really high standard.
“In terms of the play, I’ve really been enjoying trying to step up and learn new things. I’ve moved into the midfield and there’s lots of touches on the ball – so for me it’s developing good habits and getting used to how everyone plays.”
How do you reflect on the game against Watford?
“We were all really disappointed with that result – and not necessarily just the result, but the performance and how we carried ourselves.
“It’s been a good tipping point for us to reflect and we’ve come together, had a check-in with ourselves and each other, and we have each other’s backs 100 per cent.
“You can see that this week. The standards have increased and everyone’s focus is probably the best it’s been since I’ve been around.”
On a positive note, you made your debut – how was that?
“It was good. It was a little bit unexpected because my clearance didn’t come through until Saturday so it was a late addition to the squad.
“It was good to come on and be calm, be composed and it’s nice to get those first minutes I can build again this week.”
What are you expecting from Sheffield United this weekend?
“They’re a really competitive team and it’s going to be a really competitive game. We’re up each other’s back in the league and they’ll be ready to play.
“I know a couple of their players from my time in England before and that’s a bit of familiarity for me.
“We’re super focused this week.”
How important can the fans be this week?
“Coming on and even before the game, you can hear them all the time.
“As a new player they’ve been really welcoming and that makes you feel at home and gives you confidence that the fans are behind you and backing us.
“As a collective, hearing the chants and support is incredible. In those critical moments of the game, hearing that just lifts you and gives you that extra percent to keep working and run yourself into the ground until you get some points.”
Durham v Sheffield United: Everything You Need To Know
