It was a proud moment on Friday night (April 8) for Helen Ward, as Watford’s captain made her 100th appearance for Wales.
The forward came on as a late substitute in the narrow 2-1 defeat to France in Llanelli to earn another huge honour, in what has been a long and distinguished career with the Welsh national side.
Since making her debut away at Luxembourg in September 2008, Helen has been one of the most prolific goalscorers at international level.
She netted in that first appearance and has since gone on to score a further 43 times for her country. Her current tally of 44 sees Ward still hold the record of Wales’ leading goalscorer.
Now, almost 14 years on from that game in Hesperange, she’s become a member of the exclusive 100 cap club. Despite defeat against France a place at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup remains firmly in Wales’ and Ward’s sights, and you can guarantee there’ll be no let up from the Hornets’ skipper any time soon.
Speaking after the match, Ward said: “It’s incredible. I don’t think it’s quite sunk in yet. The focus tonight was on the game itself, but we couldn’t quite get the points that we wanted. It’s an honour for me to step on the pitch and get my 100th cap, and hopefully there are a few more to come.
“To be part of that group [to get 100 caps] is amazing. It’s an honour to be alongside such illustrious names and some of the biggest names in Welsh sport. It’s a privilege to be alongside them.
“It’s been unbelievable, and I’ve had loads of messages, even before I got on the pitch. It’s been a bit of a whirlwind but throughout my whole career my family have come all this way to support me. My mum in particular has been all around the country to see me play and I’m so grateful to have my kids here tonight to see my 100th game.”
Everyone at Watford FC would like to congratulate Helen for reaching the incredibly impressive milestone.
Photos: FA Wales
