Chelsea Ashurst (22/04/1990 Normanton, United Kingdom) is one of the most veteran players within Málaga CF Femenino. At 28 years of age, the Malaguista goalkeeper has conceded the fewest goals of the season and has kept a clean sheet in the promotion playoffs against CD Femarguín and CF S.P.A. Alicante. The Malaguista goalkeeper spoke to the Club media to review the season, talk about the playoffs as well as the future of Málaga CF’s women’s team.
Dream season
We could never have expected this when all the changes took place on the team. I told myself we could have the opportunity to get to where we are now, which is something I’ve wanted for such a long time. I’m one of the most veteran players on the squad and I wanted to take part in the playoffs, so I’ll hopefully be able to say that we’ve been promoted. It’s been a lovely season.
Femarguín and Spa Alicante: rivals in the promotion playoffs
We were shocked because the three toughest teams are in the same group. However, the first thought we had was that we must compete, and this experience would make us bigger and help us to grow. Now that we’ve played against both teams, we can say we’ve been at the top of the playoffs. We played until the 95th minute, but both teams are very strong rivals, which they showed in Alicante and here in Cártama. Although we won, we’re not brimming with confidence and need to keep working hard as many things can happen in football.
Maintaining a clean sheet
I don’t think about that, what I do focus on is if I don’t concede any goals, it can mean giving the team a point or even three. Working alongside Alba and Lucía allows me to improve each day with their help. I want to keep fighting and working hard, to show I can play in the First Division. I’ve faced many great players in this league and have great respect for them all.
The city is behind the team
We’re all living this year in a special way. Years ago, people didn’t know about Málaga Femenino. Now we’re very grateful that people recognise us and the work we’re doing every day. We’re thankful that the city acknowledges our effort, and if people stop us in the street it’s because they’ve seen us on the television or in the press. Everyone is behind us and rooting for us, which I think is because we’re doing something good.
The Málaga CF women’s youth ranks
There’s some wonderful talent within the Málaga women’s youth ranks. We have a ‘cadete’ who plays in the male league, so we can say there’s a bright future ahead. Talking of my position, I believe we’ll have the goal covered for many years to come. It really is a joy as they also recognise you and thank you for helping them. Some have said they want to be like me, but I’ve told them no, every goalkeeper is different and the only thing you have to do is work hard. With hard work and sacrifice you can achieve anything”.
