Reid relishing Magpies return after Sunday's shut-out | OneFootball

Newcastle United Women goalkeeper Hannah Reid said it was good to be back between the sticks after recording a clean sheet in last weekend's goalless draw at Halifax Women.

Reid made her fifth appearance of 2023/24 in last Sunday's 0-0 draw, recording her fourth shut-out of the season in the process.

Having joined the club halfway through last term, the Scottish stopper has formed part of a strong goalkeeper department alongside Grace Donnelly as the Magpies worked their way towards a second successive promotion.

But with limited minutes since her arrival, she knows how special it is to be named in the starting line-up.

'It felt really nice to start, but almost like I had imposter syndrome because it had been so long since my last appearance,' Reid told newcastleunited.com.

'It was a very quiet game for myself, which as a goalkeeper you don't usually mind, but as a player who wants to get game time and minutes, it could be seen as a bit frustrating.

'I was still having to work on my communication and my positioning, but it's a credit to the backline and players in front of them who minimised me having to see much of the ball.'

It's always difficult coming into the starting 11 after not playing for a prolonged period of time, but looking at Reid's distribution, communication and confidence at coming off of her line, it looked as though she'd been playing every week.

The former Scotland youth international has paid testament to the club's goalkeeper coach Chris Stygal, who has kept spirits high and overseen the development of a close-knit group of keepers.

'I've been training really hard all season and been supported really well by the girls who made sure we all prepared well for the game,' Reid added.

'Grace and I get on like best friends and think that's a credit to Chris, because you've got two players competing for the same position.

'On paper, there should be friction and tension, but there's none of that so it's a credit to everyone.

'It's not just Newcastle United Women - it's Newcastle United FC. It's about everyone.'