Cardiff City FC Women’s striker Shannon Evans was recently named the Orchard Welsh Premier Women’s League Player of the Season for the 2017-18 season.
Evans, who has finished as City’s top scorer in each of the last three seasons, helped the Bluebirds to a fifth-place finish in the League this term, with twenty-one league goals. The Bluebirds also reached the FAW Women’s Cup Final, losing out 2-1 to Swansea City Ladies.
The striker recently spoke to cardiffcityfc.co.uk, telling us of her excitement upon receiving the Award.
“I was delighted to win the award, I wasn’t expecting to win it at all,” Shannon began. “I didn’t think I had my best season this year, so to get the award was a bit of a shock.
“I’ve been here for four or five seasons and I’ve been top scorer for a few, so I guess my goals helped me win it. I was one goal away from winning the overall Golden Boot, but I’m still really pleased to be the club’s top scorer.”
Evans, who began her City career in 2014, explained that she has not always been a regular goalscorer – drawing parallels to a member of the Bluebirds’ 2017/18 Championship promotion squad.
“I never saw myself as a striker when I started out. I played there once before when I was little, but never in a serious match.
“I started off as a left back when I first joined the club, and now I’ve ended up as a striker. I’m still not sure how. Callum Paterson started the season as a defender and finished as the club’s top scorer in the League, so it must be a Cardiff thing!”
Finally, Shannon praised her teammates, without whom the Award win would not have been possible.
“I wouldn’t be able to do it without the girls, they’re the ones who give me the chances. The midfield and wingers give me the right service, so it’s a team effort.
“We had a few ups and downs throughout the year, but we got there towards the end of the season. We came back together as a team as the season went on, so it was nice to see everyone happy again playing together.”
Pre-Season 2018
Cardiff City FC Women kick-off their pre-season campaign this coming weekend as Keynsham Town Ladies FC visit South Wales.
All of Cardiff City FC Women's pre-season matches will take place at Cardiff International Sports Stadium, with a 2pm kick-off time. Entry for all those who wish to attend is free of charge.
Sunday 22nd July 2018 – City vs. Keynsham Town Ladies FC
Sunday 29th July 2018 – City vs. Larkhall Athletic Ladies FC
Sunday 5th August 2018 – City vs. Wolves Women FC
Sunday 12th August 2018 - City vs. Exeter City Ladies FC
Sunday 19th August 2018 – City vs. FC United of Manchester Women
