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Donnelly: 'We want to give fans something to celebrate'
Written by Aaron Hindhaugh
Newcastle United Women's number one, Grace Donnelly, is hoping for a 'Newcastle takeover' at Kenilworth Road on Saturday in the FA Women's National League Cup final.
Donnelly has started all but one game in United's run to the final and pulled off some crucial saves in the previous round against Portsmouth Women which helped Newcastle book their spot at Luton Town's stadium against Hashtag United Women.
Ahead of the showpiece game United's shot-stopper was full of praise for her team-mates and head coach, Becky Langley, admitting there is now an 'edge' to their squad.
"The way Becky drives the environment is probably one of the best things about the club," long-serving club captain Donnelly told nufc.co.uk. "We've got that little bit of edge with the way our environment is run and I think it's such a great place to be.
"All the players we've recruited, they've just slotted in so well and are definitely adopted Geordies."
Newcastle will be roared on by more than 3,000 fans at Kenilworth Road, and their fanatical away following is something Donnelly and her team-mates certainly don't take for granted.
United's fans travel up and down the country to support the Lasses and very often outnumber home supporters to create a raucous atmosphere - something which will be needed once more at Luton.
"To do a league and cup double as well as back-to-back promotions would be absolutely fantastic and a magic moment for the club," said Donnelly. "With it being a central venue for a final we're still hoping for a Newcastle takeover.
"A lot of the teams we've played in the league this season, when we've walked out they've been surprised at how many fans we've brought and outnumbered them.
"They definitely give us that extra push and are the 12th player on the pitch. We do this for the fans and we really want to give them something to celebrate."
Newcastle and Donnelly have come a long way over the past few years, especially since United's new owners set out their ambitions for the club to reach the Women's Super League.
"To play on the pitches we have over the years and now have the opportunity to play at the likes of St. James' Park for the semi-final and Kenilworth Road for the final is a fantastic opportunity," added Donnelly.
"Back in the day you'd have about five fans and my mam would be sat on a camping chair. So to now have thousands of fans travelling to away games is amazing. They definitely give us the edge and we're so thankful for the edge they give us."
Newcastle face Hashtag United Women on Saturday at Kenilworth Road and tickets can be purchased here.
"Back in the day you'd have about five fans and my mam would be sat on a camping chair. So to now have thousands of fans travelling to away games is amazing."