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Jas: We're focused on getting the job done
Written by Aaron Hindhaugh
It's been a challenging yet rewarding season for Jasmine McQuade, who made the step up into the Newcastle United Women first team in the summer and hasn't once looked back.
The Magpies are now just one win away from lifting the FA Women's National League Northern Premier Division title, with McQuade an increasingly influential part of their promotion charge, but she insists that the whole squad are treating this Sunday's clash like any other game this season.
United have won their last seven league games, putting themselves in a very positive position at the top of the table - so fittingly, their final game at home on Sunday could bring about further lifelong memories for their loyal fans.
However, McQuade isn't letting herself get carried away in the moment or with any talk of promotion on Sunday, knowing that it's business as usual against Huddersfield Town Women at Kingston Park.
"No game is ever going to be easy in this league - we've just got to treat it like any other match," McQuade told nufc.co.uk.
"We're all so focused on getting the job done, it's just another game for us. It doesn't matter if we've got a league to win or who we're playing, we just want to get the three points."
McQuade made a lasting impression on head coach Becky Langley last season, winning the players' player of the season award for the development side and earning a call-up to the first team this term.
United's skilful number 21 admits it took a while for her to adjust physically to first team training and matches, but is now in the form of her career having scored 11 times this season.
"It's been challenging in some ways coming from the development team up to a higher standard with the first team," McQuade admitted.
"It's been a lot more demanding this season in terms of the training and football is a lot quicker, everyone is stronger which pushes you every day to meet those standards. As the season's gone on I feel like I've made a lot of progress.
"I don't usually score as many goals as I have done this season. If it happens then great. If I'm coming on or starting, we've all got a job to do, but obviously scoring is always a bonus."
McQuade's scintillating form this season has not gone unnoticed by the United faithful, who cheer her on and sing her name whenever she enters the pitch - something she still finds somewhat surreal.
The 21-year-old has her own chant - to the tune of Jay-Z and T.I.'s Swagga Like Us - which is regularly heard at both home and away games.
"I'm not really sure where they got the Swagger like Jas chant from but I don't mind, it really boosts my confidence when I step out onto the pitch," she said.
Sunday's game against Huddersfield Town Women at Kingston Park kicks off at 14:00 BST on Sunday, 14th April and tickets are on sale here, priced at £5 for adults and £1 for children.
However, prices will increase to £8 for adults and £3 for concessions on the day of the game.
"Everyone is stronger which pushes you every day to meet those standards. As the season's gone on I feel like I've made a lot of progress."