Natalia Arroyo aims to create further separation from Crystal Palace | OneFootball

The last WSL game for Natalia Arroyo's side gave the Aston Villa Women three points in an entertaining, open match against Liverpool. Looking to stay up, the win provided some separation between AVWFC and Crystal Palace. A lengthy international break then gave a pause in the action for the team.

Although many of the Villans played or were a part of their national team's preparations, regardless of who received the call or not, it meant time away and out of the usual flow of league play. Establishing and creating a rhythm can be hard to achieve. Sometimes, it becomes even more difficult after an extended pause from the action.

While speaking with reporters, the Villa boss did a nice job of balancing the latest victory while focusing on what's important. In her comments, she mentioned how great getting that breakthrough win was. She also pointed out that it has been nearly two weeks since then.

Although the buzz from that 2-1 result is still in the locker room, for Arroyo, finding a way to maintain the high spirits and needed levels has been the challenge. The manager did mention how the players are feeling positive and are enjoying playing with each other. Between the golf and Easter basket clips shared on the team's socials, it does seem like there is a strong sense of camaraderie within the club.

The focus now is on Saturday's match against Tottenham. Anything is possible with the remaining fixtures left in the season. Continuing to grab points and create further separation between them and Palace is the priority for Arroyo.

Having shown quality throughout the season and watching the efforts pay off in a win has increased confidence around the club. And with good reason. Despite their current position, AVWFC have made strides and are proving to be more than a legitimate WSL side.

Opportunity to showcase progress against Tottenham

Arroyo is building the right way and continues to impress since taking over midway through the season. Another three points against Spurs would only further enhance her position, but for now, how she has handled the break and potential fears of relegation has been correct.

She is looking to not just outlast Palace; she wants to stay aggressive and put the issue of relegation out of the question. This mentality should be evident when the Aston Villa Women take on their next challenge on Saturday, as they continue to build throughout the campaign.