Mel Reay ‘Delighted’ as admission made on Sunderland Women loan ace
Sunderland Women’s head coach Mel Reay has praised summer signing Jessie Stapleton after being “delighted” by her conduct since arriving.
The 19-year-old Dublin-born defender joined the Black Cats on loan from Women’s Super League side West Ham United after a successful loan at Reading Women at the back end of last season.
Stapleton has featured in both of the previous two league games for Reay’s side, scoring in their most recent 3-3 draw against league leaders Charlton Athletic, and contributing to a win and clean sheet against London City Lionessess the week prior.
Talking to the press on Wednesday (9 October), in quotes reported by the Sunderland Echo, Reay said: “I’m delighted. I think for someone so young, only 19, a centre-back, who has so much experience at such a young age, I’m absolutely delighted with how she’s settled in.
“She’s loving life as a Sunderland player. She’s got great potential. She’s putting in performances that we’re all proud of.”
Huge opportunity for Sunderland Women
With Reay’s side unbeaten in their last three in all competitions, Sunday’s (13 October) game against rivals Newcastle United at the Stadium of Light provides a huge opportunity in many aspects.
First and foremost, a win would be huge for the club who have struggled in their start to the league campaign so far with just one win in their opening four.
It would take them level on points with Newcastle and provide a chance to continue their build of momentum in front of a record-breaking crowd and no doubt Stapleton will play a huge part in that.
However, a win could also prove big for the club from a commercial aspect, with over 12,000 fans expected to be in attendance, a big performance and good result could attract supporters to attend more regularly and cheer Reay’s side on as they aim to improve on an impressive campaign last season where they fell just short of achieving promotion.
In other Sunderland news, Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham has pulled out of the England Elite squad due to injury, journalist Matt Smith has reported.
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