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Dodds describes 'phenomenal experience' at St. James'
Written by Aaron Hindhaugh
Tyler Dodds admits there were some nerves before kick-off against Portsmouth Women in last weekend's FAWNL Cup semi-final at St. James' Park, but the support from over 22,000 Geordies helped her to put them to one side.
Dodds and her Newcastle United Women team-mates were able to play the game and not the occasion, keeping on going until the final whistle as Georgia Gibson scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner to send the Magpies to the final.
For a number of players in the United squad, it was their first competitive appearance at St. James' Park - a significant milestone for Gateshead-born Dodds.
"It was absolutely amazing and what dreams are made of," Dodds told nufc.co.uk after getting an assist in the 2-1 win. "Seeing the ground so full, it was just amazing to be part of.
"I was a bit nervous at the beginning but I think I got myself into the game and the fans were amazing."
Dodds has played for a number of clubs in the North East, but turning out at Newcastle's famous stadium was something extra special, especially when so many supporters were cheering the winger on to carve open the Portsmouth defence.
She added: "It was amazing, especially when they were roaring me on to create chances; walking over to take corners was just a phenomenal experience."
Having arrived in the summer from North East rivals Sunderland Women, Dodds has enjoyed her first season with Newcastle despite sometimes finding herself out of the starting line-up in recent weeks.
But with Beth Lumsden cup-tied, Dodds was handed a St. James' Park start and she grabbed her opportunity with both hands by laying on the first goal for Charlotte Potts.
"It was amazing to be back on the right wing doing what I love, getting balls in the box," said Dodds. "I think I got a few good ones in.
"I got the assist for Pottsy's goal from a corner which was amazing. I'm the type of person who doesn't get nervous until I put my boots on, and that certainly happened (on Sunday)."
United now have a cup final in March against Hashtag United Women at Kenilworth Road, and Dodds is hoping Luton's stadium will be full of Geordies.
She said: "I'm definitely looking forward to it and hopefully we can get 9,000 of our fans down there and make it another amazing atmosphere."
"It was absolutely amazing and what dreams are made of. Seeing the ground so full, it was just amazing to be part of."