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There's still a long way to go, warns Barker
Written by Aaron Hindhaugh
Newcastle United Women's number nine, Katie Barker, was delighted with Sunday's 3-0 win against FA Women's National League (FAWNL) Northern Premier Division title rivals Burnley Women.
United extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points thanks to second-half goals from Kacie Elson, Paige Bailey-Gayle and Jasmine McQuade, with Becky Langley's side recording back-to-back wins and clean sheets in the league.
Barker was a constant threat on Sunday, carving open the Burnley defence on numerous occasions, and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet herself in the first half.
"It was an absolutely class result," Barker admitted moments after picking up a huge win on the road.
"I think we really grafted for it, we deserved it and it could have been more, but it was a really good result.
"We had a lot of chances in the first half; I think it could have possibly been put to bed then."
The attacker has ten goals in all competitions this season which is just one fewer than her total for the whole the previous campaign, with a change of position paying dividends.
Barker is a mainstay under Langley and is loving every moment playing for the Newcastle fanbase, who continue to back the team in numbers home and away.
Supporters packed out the main stand at the Lancashire FA County Ground on Sunday, making a daunting away clash feel more like a home game - something which didn't go unnoticed by the players.
"We've come away and it feels like home so we can't thank (the fans) enough for the support they've given us today," said Barker. "It really helps."
While it was a huge statement from Newcastle to put three past a title rival, there are still eight league games left to play with each one taking on more importance.
Langley has tasked Barker with playing in a different role out wide this season, but it's one she's excelling in right now at both ends of the pitch and she hopes people are enjoying her commitment to the club.
"I'm absolutely loving it and I think my performances are showing that too, so long may it continue," Barker shared.
"Everyone is so happy, but ultimately we've still got eight games left so there's a long way to go. It was a positive step today."
SUPPORT NEWCASTLE WOMEN AT ST. JAMES' PARK
Newcastle United Women host Portsmouth Women at St. James' Park on Sunday, 25th February in the semi-finals of the FAWNL Cup.
Kick-off is at 2pm and you can get your tickets via book.nufc.co.uk.
"It was an absolutely class result. I think we really grafted for it, we deserved it and it could have been more."