‘I COULDN’T BE PROUDER’: READING MANAGER REACTS AFTER TEAM’S HUGE WIN

READING FC Women’s boss Liam Gilbert acknowledged ‘grit, determination and hard work’ for the reasons for his team’s away success at Charlton Athletic.

The Royals moved further clear of the relegation zone in the Women’s Championship by defeating title hopefuls Charlton Athletic courtesy of a stunning strike from Charlie Wellings.

“Grit, determination and hard work,” said Gilbert.

“Every single player deserves the most enormous amount of credit.

The way they fought for one another, carried their own responsibilities out on the pitch, the way they;ve handled the disappointment from last week and putting that into a performance.

“The attitude and application on the pitch and training has been sensational and I can’t speak higher of this group for what they’ve gone and done.

“We’ve said throughout the season this group has a really special bond and connection and they way they’ve gone about their business has been top class.

“No one has gone into hiding, taken everything we’ve asked of them on board and the delivery today (Sunday) was outstanding.”

It was just the second time all campaign that the Addicks have been beaten as the Royals boosted their position into eighth with their fourth win of the season.

Reading have seven league games left and are now eight points above the danger zone.

Gilbert continued: “The challenge as well couldn’t have been tougher against a side who had only lost once all season and going for the title so to pick up three points and a clean sheet is outstanding.

“The win today is far more than the three points too. The way we proved we can compete against these teams, the momentum we can build from this. There is still work to do and we will keep on pushing.

“I couldn’t be producer of this whole team from the players as us a coaching staff.

“We’ve all had some big honest conversations, making sure we take nothing for granted and today has proved we are all pulling in the right direction.”