Lewes skipper Baker on highs and lows of life in women's football's second tiier

The Lewes Women captain and goalkeeper said they under-performed at times in a campaign which had brought a lot of change in the team, but said their togetherness shone through and would stand them in good stead in 2020-21.

It was only last week that the FA finally ruled that the season was over for the top two tiers of women’s football, meaning Lewes – who were ninth in the 11-team league when play was suspended – will be in the same division when football does resume.

Baker said it was disappointing not to be able to finish the campaign, which was Lewes’ second at this high level.

She told us: “This season was always going to be tough for us as it was one that brought a lot of change.

“There were lots of new faces, a new manager and little time to gel. I think it’s fair to say we under-performed for large parts of it and players lacked confidence after a run of bad results.

“We did however have plenty of highlights and ran WSL1 clubs close in the Conti Cup. Games against Chelsea and Reading proved we are good enough to be in the Championship and it’s a shame the season was cut short as I believe we still had a lot to give in the remaining fixtures.

“Aston Villa this season really stood out, they looked solid throughout and it did not look like any team would stand in their way of reaching promotion.

“The early end to the season was extremely frustratiing. Football is part of our daily routine, and all of a sudden we had lost that.

“Initially as players we were all working as hard as we could individually to ensure we would be ready should the season resumed. Although the wait was extremely long to find out what would happen with our season, we were always kept up to date via our general manager and the FA which made it easier.

“I was never worried about relegation with Lewes – I always knew we would remain in this league next season, regardless of whether the season continued or ended.

“I can imagine as a team we won’t be returning to training any time soon, which is such a shame as you go from seeing your team-mates five times a week to not seeing them at all, it’s a strange feeling.”

Baker said it was hard to assess the new season but Lewes would be raring to go and keen to make an impression.

“It’s difficult to tell what will happen next season,” she said. “Covid-19 could impact a lot of clubs and their playing budgets which may make it difficult when offering contracts and trying to attract new players.

“Naturally there will be a fair bit of player movement and people come and go. The togetherness within the squad is extremely good. The aim will most certainly be to finish as high as we can, score lots of goals and keep lots of clean sheets.”