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Boddy's back to boost Newcastle United Women for run-in
Written by Aaron Hindhaugh
Elysia Boddy made an instant impact on her return to the Newcastle United Women starting line-up against Liverpool Feds on Sunday, as the England under-19 international played 60 minutes and claimed an assist in a 5-1 victory for the Magpies.
Boddy had been sidelined since the middle of January when she last started against Manchester United Women in the Women's FA Cup, so it's no surprise she was grinning from ear-to-ear after the Magpies' impressive win at Kingston Park.
United now have a 14-point lead at the top of the FA Women's National League Northern Premier Division and know that game by game they're edging closer to their aim of promotion.
And Boddy, 20, has been determined to ensure she is in the right place physically and mentally to help United when they need her most during the all-important run-in.
"I loved it and enjoyed every single one of the 60 minutes I was out there for," Boddy admitted after Sunday's success.
"I've worked really hard to get my body into a position where I can start again. Credit to the backroom staff, physios and strength and conditioning coaches."
Having been brought to the club in the summer, Boddy has already made a huge impact in midfield, often dominating games and popping up in both boxes at crucial moments.
She'd taken up a spot on the bench in the last few weeks but now, with her injury behind her, Boddy is ready to kick on and give the United fans what they deserve.
"The most important thing we've done is use the cup final defeat as fuel and fire to help us fight for what we needed which was three points," she added.
"The fans are unbelievable, we always feel them behind us, we feel their support. It's massive and they all push us on that little bit more."
It's been a tough period for the youngster, who had to spend time away from the first team training sessions as she concentrated on her rehab.
But she explained: "I'm feeling strong and fit, so it's all about building my minutes back up. (Sunday) was my first start (since the Man United game) and I feel really good now.
"Injuries happen, it's all part of the game and I've learnt a lot this season about myself and my body. So moving forward I'm just trying to keep myself in the best place possible to help the team."
Newcastle United Women's next game is at home to Huddersfield Town Women on Sunday, 14th April. Kick-off at Kingston Park is at 14:00 BST on Sunday, 14th April and tickets are on sale here, priced at £5 for adults and £1 for children.
"I've worked really hard to get my body into a position where I can start again. Credit to the backroom staff, physios and strength and conditioning coaches."