A Goal for the Ages
Ashley Cheatley, the dynamo on the Brentford squad, pulled off a jaw-dropping overhead kick last November that would make any football fan stand up and cheer. Known affectionately as the 'Cheat Code', her stunning strike has earned her a well-deserved nomination for FIFA's Marta Award—a recognition meant for the best goals in women's football.
Imagine the scene: Cheatley cushions the ball elegantly with her right thigh, flicks it over a defender's head, and with artistry, dancers through air to send the ball into the net. This audacity is part of what makes her goal not just a statistic but a moment frozen in time.
'Proper Footballers' and a Humble Heart
It's noteworthy that Cheatley's astonishment stems not just from personal achievement but more so from the company she keeps on this shortlist. “These are like proper footballers,” she exclaimed, referring to her competitors, which include luminaries like Arsenal's Mariona Caldentey, Manchester City's Vivianne Miedema, and Brazilian legend Marta herself. Despite the aura of that honor, Cheatley remains grounded, laughing off the idea of being included among such all-stars: “And then you've got me, who just kicks the ball around on a Sunday for fun!”
“I still don't think I've accepted it.”
Cheatley's background is rich with football lore; before joining Brentford, she dazzled at Ashford Town where she notched an impressive 46 goals last season, helping her team secure promotion. Her meteoric rise from grassroots to this nomination is a narrative that resonates within the football community.
A Journey Through Shock and Joy
In a candid interview reflecting on her scoreboard-shattering moment, Cheatley revealed that inspiration made it happen. “I didn't even think about it,” she confessed about her goal. “It's the perfect touch, really.” This instinctive brilliance hints at the raw talent simmering within her. It raises the intriguing question: How often can audacity paired with instinct lead to brilliance in sports?
Not only does her goal signify personal triumph, but it also brings attention to the broader ecosystem of women's football, which is growing in visibility and competitiveness. The buzz around her nomination is a vital reminder of the exciting narratives at play in the women's game.
A Life Devoted to Football
The passion Cheatley exhibits isn't confined to just scoring goals. Hailing from a family of Brentford season-ticket holders and living steps away from G-Tech Community Stadium, her life embodies the club's ethos. “My life is Brentford, in a nutshell,” she aptly puts it. Off the pitch, she contributes technically to the club's online ticketing platform, blending her love for football with her professional skills.
Her heartfelt connection to the club explains in part why fans have embraced her, donning merchandise emblazoned with “Cheat Code.” Now, as she contemplates the prospect of winning the award, her humility shines through. “I don't think I'll win. And if I were to never score another wonder goal again, that's absolutely fine by me,” Cheatley stated with genuine sincerity.
The Road Ahead
The winner of the Marta Award will be decided by a blend of fan votes and insights from a panel of 'FIFA legends'. Public voting closes on November 28, so there's still time for fans to rally behind their favorites. In an era where women's football is garnering unprecedented attention, Cheatley's story encapsulates the very essence of what the sport represents today: resilience, community, and remarkable talent.
As the football calendar unfolds, keep your eyes glued to Cheatley and Brentford. Whether she takes home the Marta Award or not, her journey is only just beginning, and this is one narrative I'm excited to follow.
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c2059p6q6jwo
