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Lee: It's a day I won't take for granted
Written by Joseph Nelson
Newcastle United Women midfielder Rachel Lee says that the opportunity to share the experience of playing at St. James' Park with those closest to her will be "special."
When the Magpies take on Bradford City Women at the iconic stadium on Sunday it will be the first time Lee has played there, as she missed the two previous outings against Alnwick Town Ladies and Barnsley Women due to a long-term knee injury.
"I'm excited, but try not to get carried away with things," she began in an interview with nufc.co.uk. "I've played for a long time now and still get the same buzz for a game day, no matter where it's played or who the opposition is.
"But games at St. James' Park are extra special and it's a day I'm looking forward to sharing with those closest to me who have been a great support network throughout the last year.
"I am grateful to be back on the pitch and contributing to the team again and to be able to share the moment with friends and family who have supported me throughout the low points is special.
"It was really tough (missing the previous St. James' Park matches), particularly missing the first game there. It was bittersweet because you just want to be out there playing your part.
"Missing every game hurts, but of course, you want to be a part of the big occasions. Throughout being injured I just had to work hard in rehab and keep faith that I would get back fit again and would hopefully get another opportunity to be a part of it, so it's a day I definitely won't take for granted."
Following Newcastle's 2-2 draw with Hull City Ladies at the weekend, the FA Women's National League Division One North title race remains in the balance.
Despite the increased pressure following two dropped points, Lee says the Magpies must continue with the same principles that have served them well up to this point.
"As far as I'm concerned, nothing has changed," she said. "We go about the next few games with exactly the same mindset: one game at a time. We're a level-headed group and haven't gotten carried away with anything.
"Ultimately, we trust each other and believe in the quality and character of the group and it's part of my role as a more experienced player to keep reinforcing that."
The midfielder also issued a rallying cry to both her team-mates and the Newcastle fans, citing the collective spirit on and off the pitch as being a key catalyst for success this term.
"I want to say thank you to those fans who have been with us every step of the way on this journey - the support doesn't go unnoticed and they have undoubtedly played their part," Lee added.
"I remember the game at Kingston Park against Durham Cestria; it was freezing and such a tight game and it really felt like the crowd were kicking every ball with us, they pushed us all the way to that final whistle. We need that again each and every game as we move forward.
"We want to inspire them and we want them to be proud of our team and our city. We want them to feel a part of this journey and we need their backing.
"They are our 12th player out there when we need a boost. It's crunch time in the season now and we're ready to show everyone exactly what we're all about."
WATCH NEWCASTLE WOMEN AT ST. JAMES' PARK
Newcastle Women return to the 'cathedral on the hill' on Sunday, 16th April, taking on Bradford City Women in a 2pm (BST) kick-off.
Advance tickets are now available for you to book - get yours here!
Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock/@Tyneside_NUWFC
"I want to say thank you to those fans who have been with us every step of the way on this journey - the support doesn't go unnoticed and they have undoubtedly played their part."