Friday 14 November 2014 09:32, UK
Casey Stoney believes the maturity Arsenal Ladies team-mate Leah Williamson demonstrated when scoring a stunning chip against Chelsea would make her a worthy winner of this year’s Goal of the Season.
The accolade will be presented at the FA Women’s Football Awards on Friday, although Williamson faces competition from players including England duo Natasha Dowie and Jordan Nobbs to land the prize.
Williamson’s strike has the seal of approval from England centurion Stoney, who feels the only goal that might beat it is Toni Duggan’s exquisite volley against Chelsea.
To be honest with you, I thought the finish from a 17-year-old young girl was coolness personified.
“To be honest with you, I thought the finish from a 17-year-old young girl was coolness personified,” Stoney told Sky Sports News HQ.
“It was a brilliant chip over the goalkeeper and for me that epitomises her as a player. She’s such an old head on young shoulders in terms of her playing ability and the way she sees the game.
“I’ve got to say Toni’s goal was also great, she took it on her chest and it was a great volley and that’s what Toni can do. Natasha Flint is another young player who scored a great individual goal and is shortlisted.
“The quality of the goals are brilliant so it’s a hard one to call. But I think I’d have to go with Leah’s because she saw that opportunity when the ball got rolled into her and it was a great finish for a 17-year-old in a pressurised situation.
“I’d like to see Leah win it but I wouldn’t be surprised if Toni wins it.”
Stoney was speaking at a panel discussion on women in sport hosted by the charity Stonewall in London’s Harley Street.
The 32-year-old, who became a parent for the first time last weekend believes versatile youngster Williamson is destined to represent England one day.
She’s just got so much potential and I think she can become a real player.
“She’s just got so much potential and I think she can become a real player,” Stoney said. “She’s played in almost every position on the park for us this season and to do that for Arsenal Football Club says a lot at 17.
“She’s a great player and a great person who is really grounded and I hope she does really well. I’ll be long retired but I think there is definitely a senior England career for her. “
Karen Carney, Ji So-Yun and Jess Clarke are shortlisted for the Players’ Player of the Year award which will also be presented on Friday.
“I was quite surprised Fara Williams wasn’t in there,” Stoney added. “She had a great season and dictated the outcome of the title and Eni Aluko also had a fantastic season.”
“But I’d give it to Jess Clarke because she had to pretty much play as an out-and-out striker on her own and was a constant threat. She scored a lot of goals and was so consistent. She’s had a fantastic season.”
