Gareth Taylor’s side kick off the 2020/21 term with a trip to newly-promoted Aston Villa, having lifted the curtain on the new campaign with a disappointing FA Community Shield defeat last weekend against Chelsea.
With lessons learned from the setback at Wembley and a week of hard work and preparation in the tank, Kelly says City are ready to return to winning ways.
However, our summer recruit also warned of the ‘fight’ and enthusiasm top-flight newcomers Villa possess, with City having faced the Midlands outfit in pre-season.
“We can’t wait to get the league season started,” she said. “Pre-season is great but you want that competitive side of the game; you want to show what you’re capable of.
“Villa are a tough team. It was hard to break them down but it’s about being patient against those teams – waiting for the moment rather than trying something spectacular.
“They’re newly-promoted so they’ll have a bit of fight in them.
“It’s very important to start the season with a win. It sets the tone for the rest of the season and sets us on the right foot.
“Hopefully, we can go there and get three points with a good performance.”
With five trophies to fight for this season, Kelly says she can feel the hunger amongst the squad, especially given last season’s setbacks and last weekend’s disappointment.
Although still a newbie, Kelly added she can already see the team’s belief growing under Head Coach Taylor’s stewardship, with the direct, attacking style matching her play perfectly.
“There are plenty of titles to contest!” she smiled. “We want to win every single one.
“We believe in ourselves and the way we’ve played in pre-season shows that we believe in ourselves.
“That belief comes from the manager – he sets the tone for the players on the pitch – and it’s a great way to play.
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“I’m really enjoying working under Gareth. We can ask questions – he’s a manager who is very approachable.
“The football we’re playing is very exciting and free. As a forward, it’s great to play in that style.
“You’re always on the ball and looking to score goals. It’s very exciting to watch.
“The signings we’ve made this summer are also a massive statement. I’m really excited to be playing alongside those players, and the players we already had are brilliant!
“What a way to set the mark for the new season. It’s great.
“Hopefully, we’ll win titles and hopefully, the fans will be able to come out soon and watch us.”
