News & EventsLatest NewsCalendar
Whos Who At Sutton Coldfield Town Ladies FC - Alison Forbes

Whos Who At Sutton Coldfield Town Ladies FC - Alison Forbes

Alexander Moloney30 Dec 2020 - 12:37
Share via
FacebookX
https://www.sctfc.com/news/who

Mark Sanders gets to know the players in the Ladies Squad

1. How long have you been at Sutton and what position do you play?

I joined half way through the 18/19 season after a couple of seasons not playing – and I play Centre Half

2. What was the first game you played in?

It was against Lye Town and we won 6-0.

3. Have any of your family ever supported the Royals?

No, my family are all based in Coventry. They want the team that I play for to do well though.

4. Most memorable match?

It has to be the League Cup final, which was the last game of my first season with the club. Our goalkeeper was on holiday so I volunteered to go in goal in the club house after we had won the semi-final. No one had any idea if I'd be any good but I think they were secretly just pleased that someone had put themselves forward. I made some decent saves but misjudged a cross and dislocated and fractured my finger after about 25 minutes. There was no way Andy was going to let me come off so I played the full 90. Made a few more saves and we won the match 1-0. I got player of the match too.

5. Game you most want to forget?

Coundon Court at home in the season I joined. We were top of the league with fate in our own hands and we lost 4-3. We came back from 3-0 down to equalise in the last few minutes, only to concede a 4th in injury time. That game ultimately cost us the league.

6. How have you been playing this season after a long break due to lockdown?

I’m personally happy with my performances so far this season. It's been great to get going again and being able to train and play. It’s frustrating that every time we seem to build momentum though another lockdown is introduced. What's been great is the coaches putting on 1:1 sessions for us to ensure we keep ticking over. I’ve really appreciated that, and I think that’s helped us stay fit for when the games have restarted.

7. How often do you train during the week?

As a team we train twice, and then I do another 3 sessions on my own. A mixture of going to the gym and playing squash. Again, the lockdowns and consistent changes to rules have been frustrating because it’s hard to build any decent momentum.

8. Best player at Sutton Coldfield this season do you feel?

Well the season for us has really only just begun. We have played 5 league games, so only a quarter of the season. We are lucky to have some great players in the squad and it's hard to single just one player out so far. Harry has played in a new position this season at right back and has been excellent so far, she is improving every game. Niamh is a goal machine but her hold up play is also excellent. Lampitt is the engine in the middle of the park who never stops running. Tro in goal has really helped improve our defence, as she is constantly giving information to the back 4. I’ve been impressed with Jamie who joined us this season too.

9. Furthest travelled to play for Sutton?

We don’t travel that far really. In the league it's got to be between Worcester and Leek but we did play Doncaster Belles in pre-season. That was great fun – especially the journey back after we had won.

10. What improvements would you like to see at the ground?

The changing rooms are a bit tired, so probably that if I had to pick something.

11. Do you support any other football teams?

I’m a big Coventry City fan. Me, my Dad and nephews are all season ticket holders. It was incredible seeing us promoted last season, it was just gutting as a fan to not number able to share that with others as it was decided on points per game after lockdown number 1!

12.Best thing about Sutton Coldfield Town FC?

It's an amazing club all round. I’ve felt so welcome since I arrived by everyone (players, managers, club staff). It's like being part of an extended family.

13. What is your favourite film?

10 Things I Hate About You.

14. Where do you see your football career going?

I’d love to get promoted with Sutton into the National League. That is my ultimate goal. I’d like to think I’ve got a few more seasons left in me and will carry on playing for as long as my body allows.

15. What is your favourite group/ band?

That has to be Coldplay. I’ve seen them live 5 times, they are incredible performers.

16. Do your team mates have a nickname they use for you?

Ally or Al – although it confuses them when they see/hear my full name.

17. What hobbies or interests do you have outside football?

I love to travel and am fortunate enough to have been to some incredible places. There’s a lot more travel on my bucket list though. I like walking, I have two dogs so walk a lot with them. Spending time with my friends, eating out at nice pubs/restaurants. I’m also really interested in interior design, and am currently part way through renovating my house.

18. How have you been keeping busy during the lockdown?

I’m fortunate that my work wasn’t affected by the lockdown so I’ve been working right throughout. When I was due to be on holiday I kept myself busy with DIY. I built a 6x4m pergola and an outdoor table and benches in the summer from scratch – I just bought a load of wood!

19. Do you feel that women’s football is better supported now?

The support is growing, and the game is improving. We are so fortunate at Sutton to have the backing that we do. We get some decent crowds and they will only grow if we get promoted.

20. Do you feel women’s football is publicised enough?

Again the publicity is improving along with the product. The WSL players are full time and I think it's clear to see the progression in the game at elite level over the last 10 years. Lots of people criticise women's football but have no idea of the history of the game, including the 50 year ban imposed by the FA.

Further reading