Riko Ueki expressed her pride for her West Ham United women’s team after their 3-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
Rehanne Skinner’s side clinched a well-deserved win against the Seagulls, who entered proceedings fifth in the Barclays Women’s Super League standings, courtesy of goals from Shekiera Martinez, Ueki and a Viviane Asseyi penalty.
Ueki has been ever-present for the Hammers this term, starting every league match, and she was delighted to net her fifth goal in all competitions against Brighton.
The striker scored what proved to be the winning goal in the contest, pouncing on a Guro Bergsvand error before finishing calmly past goalkeeper Melina Loeck midway through the second half.
Japan international Ueki worked tirelessly throughout the contest and stated before the match how much she wanted to make the supporters happy against the Seagulls. She and the Hammers certainly did that at Chigwell Construction Stadium at the weekend.
“It was a great game, I’m so happy and so proud of the team,” said Ueki. “Everyone worked hard, everyone was so positive, so I’m happy.
“My job is to score goals, so today I’m happy that I was able to do that. My goal was a team goal because everyone pressed and the timing of everyone’s [press made the goal], so it was a team goal.
“I love to play in front of the fans, and today was a great three points.
“The next game is in two weeks' time, and now we will separate on international duty. The win will be great for us going into the next game.”
The 25-year-old will now link up with the Japan national team as they take on Australia, Colombia and the USA in the SheBelieves Cup.
