Amy Crook is front row, fifth from left. Roger is back row far right. All match pictures by Mark D. Fuller of officialbfcpics.co.uk
Q Amy, how did the idea of a women’s team game at the Gtech come about ?
A I put a consideration paper into the Chairman, Jon Varney and Monique Choudhry and then it was agreed at board level. Thank you everyone for believing in us.
Q What did the squad think when they were told?
A Unreal, what an opportunity and experience, incredible, Amazing news, insane, thanks for sorting it out, dreams can come true.
Q Were there any special preparations?
A No, we prepared it like any other match day, so not to overwhelm the players as it was a huge occasion as nerves were heightened.
Q On the day were you especially nervous?
A I was excited as I knew the incredible amount of planning and preparation had been done.
Q Were you surprised at the size of the crowd?
A I knew we would get a good following but no idea of the scale, so really pleased and a wow factor. Very chuffed to smash the last crowd attendance 1010 at Bedfont Sports. Two for the history records now!
Q What was the atmosphere like?
A It was electric and to hear the children chanting was adorable from the stands. To bring people together is a lovely sight and sound we generated.
Q Did the game itself go as you expected?
A Yes and even better with the result. The players prepared well and raised their performance once they believed how good they were, it was a shock to start with playing in front of that amount of fans but they soon settled in and we said enjoy the moment and may the force be with you all.
Q How did the squad feel afterwards?
A They were buzzing, and still, they had the biggest smiles on their faces and were all part of a historic moment.
Q What do you hope the follow-ups will be?
A More interest in the grassroots game, retain the fans, social media posts have increased our followers.
Q Looking back on the whole experience what did it mean to you and what will you remember most?
A To celebrate the growth of women’s football by staging this game, (its been a 32 year journey so it was a very proud achievement for me and my dad) it added interest to those that have never been to the Gtech Stadium, and it benefited the local community, to be able to make dreams come true are the magic moments you thrive on and to be able to inspire the new generation. Great team effort from the staff pulling it together as well.
Q What did Roger think?
A ( from Amy’s dad Roger Crook) Amy has said it all, one of the best days of my life to witness this at the GTech. I would just like to say a huge thank you to all the Brentford FC Directors, Staff, Groundsman and everyone else that made it possible for the match to happen.Their support was absolutely brilliant and a lot of people went over and above to make it happen, thank you.
