Defender Niamh Connor could play her 100th game in all competitions for Peterborough United Women on Sunday afternoon against Burton Albion Women at Deeping Rangers FC (2pm).
The 21-year-old has been a part of the Club since she was fourteen and after going through the Academy set-up, she received her First Team call up at sixteen.
Connor is thrilled to be on the verge of the 100 Club and used this milestone to reflect on the development of Posh Women: “We used to turn up on a Sunday, in the middle of a field sometimes, and there would be just people’s parents watching and to me even though I took it seriously it sometimes felt like a kick-about in the park. We’ve definitely progressed as a club and it’s now something now that the younger girls can look up to.
“I remember my first training session, it was actually trials and I wasn’t going to go in for them, but my Mum said just do it, what have you got to lose and I got in. It was daunting as a 16-year-old coming in as there was quite an established squad there, but now I feel I’ve matured a little bit and I’m a lot more comfortable to say the least.
“My favourite game was Stourbridge in the FA Cup two years ago- I think I scored the first one and then we had that 120th winner from Keir [Perkins]. It was a late night game; that was really really good and an enjoyable day.
“My favourite goal was that one or my other goal against Stourbridge in the league where I scored the winner in our last home game of the season.”
Assistant Manager Georgia Clarke has had the privilege of coaching Connor from a young age: “Niamh made her first appearance for the Women’s team whilst she was part of Peterborough United Foundation’s Scholarship Programme. The progress I’ve seen in Niamh since that first appearance has been immense and making her 100th appearance at such a young age is an incredible achievement and something she should be very proud of.
“Her technical ability has developed over the past few seasons and her athleticism and physicality that have always been a big part of her game have been enhanced even further through the exposure to senior football.
“Full credit must go to Niamh for her commitment and loyalty towards the club and hopefully there are another 100 appearances to come!”
The defender has scored three goals so far this season, thanks to her infamous headers, and has impressed the gaffer since his arrival.
Manager Jake Poole said: “Niamh is a model example of the success of the pathway available at the football club and bleeds blue in everything that she does.
“She’s a passionate leader and goes to battle for the team and the club each week, and will serve as a role model for many more young players coming through the club in years to come.”
General Manager Sam Winch said: “ Niamh's journey with Peterborough United Women has been an inspiring one. Her 100 games milestone is a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to the team. Her determination and passion for the game have been evident in every match she plays.
“We are proud to have Niamh as part of our team and we look forward to seeing her continue to excel on the field. Niamh is a person with an infectious personality both on and off the pitch and demonstrates passion in abundance.
“Congratulations on this incredible achievement and I look forward to seeing many more in the Peterborough Blue!”
Jake Poole’s side remain undefeated so far this season after a thrilling 4-3 comeback over Notts County last weekend and will look to continue their streak in the Third Qualifying Round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup this Sunday against Burton Albion at Deeping Rangers FC (2pm).