Lovely Jubbly! Only Fools Fan Gabby Keeps Smiling As Women Target League Title

It’s fair to say it’s been an eventful season for the women’s team so far. A brilliant FA Cup run. Record attendances. TV appearances. Finalists in the Women’s Kent Cup. Lots of new faces around the squad. Oh…and dare we say, another title challenge to contend with?

For Gabby Howell, it’s all part and parcel of what she loves about the club and team.

In her third season at the club, she has become one of the more experienced heads in the changing room – and on the pitch, is relishing her new responsibilities.

A role model for girls and women, she has had her share of detractors in the past with comments on her looks sometimes overshadowing what she can do with a ball at her feet.

But now she is happy to let her feet do the talking as she gears up for an exciting couple of months.

She said: “The season’s started off really well, we have got ourselves in a good position in the league and what’s even more exciting is we all are learning week in, week out, and getting stronger as a group.

“We had one slip-up game against my old club which is super frustrating but in truth I think it gave us the kick up the bum we need. This league is so tough, and in the history-books losing one game normally means the league isn’t yours. But after we beat Saltdean we managed to level the playing field. It’s all to play for now!”

Through media initiatives and the magic of the FA Cup, the superb cup run brought in many new fans setting record attendances. Many of these fans have continued watching, with a league record attendance last home game, as well. Now the club have given out free tickets to fans at a recent men’s game to help continue this upward trajectory.

For Gabby, the FA Cup gave the team a chance to test themselves against a higher standard of team.

She continued: “It was good fun wasn’t it! We managed to draw a few Tier 4 sides which is where we want to be next year, so it was a good test for us to see where we are at as a group.

“For me, my favourite memory would probably be the QPR game, going into battle with them for 90 mins and winning on pens with every player scoring and Jadey making an excellent save!

“It’s huge to see so many new fans coming to our games! As a group, we honestly cannot thank the supporters enough!! Having a solid number supporting us week-in, week-out, is like playing with 16 players. We constantly hear them and it’s nice to catch up in the bar after and get their thoughts!

“So, if I can say anything I would just like to say a massive thank you, and I hope you know that your continuous support doesn’t go unnoticed. THANK YOU!”

This season, Gabby’s role on the pitch has changed, but it’s something she is relishing.

She said: “I’ve changed position and I’m involved in the middle of the pitch. I think I’ve found more of a voice on the pitch as well, as I am able to talk to all units.

“This is definitely something I didn’t do last year, and it shows how I’ve personally developed this season.

“Due to being here for nearly three years now, I think I am seen as one of the more “experienced” players, and with that I do try to share what I’ve learnt with the newbies where I can. As a player I would say I just don’t stop running and love a slide tackle!”

Lots of new players have come in this season, something that can affect changing rooms. How has Gabby and the team found it?

She continued: “We all laugh because when we all started in pre-season the dressing room was very awkward and quiet but we now have got the best changing room in the league, arguably the women’s game!

“We regulars play games, have baller and donuts votes (which you may see when we warm up) and regular dances. It’s a great dressing room to be in to be honest. I would say this year the obvious difference is we are a younger group, but that’s exciting because it allows us to freshen ourselves with tactics and our identity.”

As the team gets into the business end of the season, the title that has eluded them for the past few seasons is in their grasp once again. Does the squad talk about it? Or do they try to take one game at a time?

Gabby continued: “I would say both. We know the goal and what we are working towards, for sure, but we also know we have got to take each game as it comes. Every game is a cup final to us!”

Gabby, like many in the squad are fitness freaks, with regular gym sessions part-and-parcel of their preparation.

She said: “For games, my ritual is Only Fools and Horses with a sing-song in the car. I must say, my playlist is top tier….haha!

“Outside of football I am in the gym, tending to have one rest day a week. Parts of our identity is working hard and being physical so going to the gym regularly helps!”

With it being International Women’s Day, does Gabby have a message for her teammates and women in general, or have any advice for young girls getting into the game?

She added: “A slay a day keeps the haters away!  All jokes aside, my message would be to just keep doing you, keep smiling, don’t stress about things out of your control, focus on what you can do and always strive to learn more and be better. Every day is a learning day!!

“As for young players, I’d say just don’t be a goalkeeper! No, only kidding! Honestly, just enjoy it. Football is fun, so make sure when you’re playing, you’re playing with a smile on your face! Enjoy all the moments you get, learn from losses, celebrate wins and most importantly be the best teammate you can be!”

As for final words, Gabby kept it simple, but to the point.

She added: “LET’S GO AND WIN THE LEAGUE!!!! UP THE DARTS!!!!”

It’s free entry for women to the women’s match this Sunday. Darts Women take on Aylesford in the league with a 1pm KO at Princes Park. Please go along and show your support.

Photos Kicks and Clicks