The manager was pleased with how his players continue to build confidence heading into the new season, but was particularly impressed with the way the academy players have handled the step up to the first team.
“The game against Queen's Park was another good workout for us. It’s always good to rotate the team that little bit and get a few returning players in. The squad is taking shape and it was a really good exercise.”
“The two academy girls that were with us last night have trained well and have played in the side before. They both got substantially more minutes last night and I thought they equipped themselves really well. I think it’s something we as a club need to look at more extensively; but it’s really good to see both players doing really, really well.”
Along with the academy players, the new summer signings have also made an impact.
“It’s always difficult as a player going to a new club and trying to fit into an existing squad, but all of the girls have become part of the group very quickly. They’re now getting minutes on the pitch which helps to integrate them that little bit more.”
“We’re still carrying a few injuries and although those are certainly getting less it means that we’ve not worked on certain areas that I would have hoped to and rotated the team as much as I would have liked. We’re going to have those issues to deal with throughout the season.”
“It’s a learning process for us and we’re going to have to get through these difficult moments… but most importantly, I’m happy with the progression and the morale in the group. The environment is really positive right now.”
Looking towards the final pre-season game against Kilmarnock, Grant was looking forward to re-introducing some key players to his side.
“We’ll get Shannon McGregor on the pitch for a few more minutes this time so it’ll be more meaningful for her. We’ve got to deal with these things gradually.”
“Hopefully one or two others like Joelle Murray will be the same if she pushes through this week. These are positives for us as we go into the final practice game, ready for the real thing the week after, having more of a squad going into that game.”
