MARIEANNE Spacey-Cale claimed that she was thrilled with the different facets of the game shown in Southampton FC Women's 2-1 victory over Sheffield United at St Mary's on Sunday.

Sophia Pharoah and Katie Wilkinson scored either side of Blades defender Jodie Hutton's stunning strike as Saints moved up to second in the Championship.

The hosts had to weather a lot of pressure in the second half to hold onto the three points but they were able to do just that.

Speaking to the Daily Echo after the match, Spacey-Cale explained how her side showed maturity in their performance.

She said: "We have spoken in the dressing room today about there being times when you can win by playing really good football and times when you can win by playing without the ball.

"We did both today so three points were really important for us, and we have done it in a way that shows how this group is growing up and maturing in this league.

"We are getting to grips with the competitive challenge that you have every game. I’m delighted with the performance in both halves for different reasons but also the three points."

The Saints boss was disappointed with conceding during the first half, where her side created numerous chances and were on top during that stage of the game.

Wilkinson put the home side 2-1 in front just three minutes after conceding the equaliser, before Saints held on to earn a vital win.

Spacey-Cale continued: "It was disappointing to concede but it was a great goal and credit to the player that scored it.

"We believe in what we are trying to do. In the first half, we showed that. We showed what we are capable of when we get the ball down and play.

"That second half showed grit, determination, that desire not to concede and to keep the 2-1 victory so it was a game of two halves as they say.

"Results will not always go your way, performances won’t go your way so for me, the most important thing today was to get the three points which we have done.

"Now, we have got to focus on a midweek game against Reading and then another big game next week. We need to rest and recover and then get ready for the next game."

Goalkeeper Kayla Rendell was awarded player of the match for her performance, which featured several top saves to keep the South Coast side in the lead.

There was little she could have done with the goal that she did concede, which was a wonderful curling effort into the top corner from just outside the penalty area.

Reflecting on the 22 year old's performance, the Saints boss acknowledged how important she is to the team.

She added: "That is why Kayla is an excellent goalkeeper. We know what she is capable of. We know that in the big moments, she will make those saves.

"She is a calming influence as well so she will make a save, she will get up, and be ready for what is next.

"I am really pleased for her and for the players that started and also the players that were not involved. It is a squad effort, and the supporters also played their part."

It was Saints Women's first game back at St Mary's since a suspected pitch disease, which meant the side had to play two home matches at AFC Totton's Snows Stadium.

They face Reading in the Continental Cup tomorrow, before being back at home against Charlton next Sunday.