Following the completion of their third win over MK Dons this season, Damon Lathrope effused about his team’s cohesion and work ethic, having put five past the Dons in a thrilling encounter at Stadium MK.

The Golden Girls scored all their goals in the first half, with Dré Georgiou’s immediate opener followed by a Gemma Davison penalty, Poppy Wilson brace and Sophie McLean header before the break, dominating possession in a quiet second 45 which saw the hosts sit back and defend resolutely.

Pleased with the fast start, Lathrope praised some clinical finishing and hard work to take an early lead.

“We started really quick and that's what you want to do; we want to make a habit of that,” said Lathrope. “We did enough in the first 15 to 20 minutes to be able to enjoy the rest of the game, so we’re really pleased.

“We were very clinical with our chances in the first half and their keeper had a good day as well. We were really pleased overall with the 90 minutes and the message was to just keep doing what they were doing.

“We've created an identity to the way we want to play and it takes bravery, takes courage and with the surroundings today - at a nice pitch and a nice stadium - I think it played into our hands. We were convincing winners doing it on our terms, the players are buying in, their understanding of how we want to play is growing week in week out, and we're in a good place.”

McLean, who signed from Billericay Town in February 2023, headed home her first goal in Watford colours to cap off an excellent attacking display, and earned compliments from Lathrope for her seamless transition into the Hornets side.

“Soph's been superb since she came in,” the Head Coach continued. “We knew she was a very good player when we were looking to get her into the club and she has really shown that she's a top player.

“She's made a great impact. She's very athletic and very comfortable with taking the ball. Soph has been brilliant and was very good again today.”

A long trip south to Plymouth awaits on Sunday April 2 [12.30pm KO], with former midfielder Lathrope excited for another tough test in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.

The Head Coach believes the journey, coupled with an overnight stay, can add to the camaraderie already embedded within the group, as they search for three vital points in their promotion push.

“We'll do the normal preparation that we do for every game,” clarified Lathrope, 33. “We know it's going to be a tough place to go because it's the other end of the country, but that comes with its positives as well.

“We're going on Saturday, we get a lot more time with the team and they're in a great space at the moment. We’ll do our preparations, we'll be ready to go, and hopefully pick up another three points.”