Shelbourne forward Kate Mooney has been named as the SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division Player of the Month for June and July.
The Dubliner is leading the Golden Boot race with 12 goals that have helped to keep Eoin Wearen’s team just three points behind champions Athlone Town at the top of the table.
Mooney was in brilliant form across the last two months, which was highlighted by her brace in the win away to Peamount United and her hat-trick in the victory against Sligo Rovers.
The 26-year-old has certainly found her groove in front of goal but her overall play has made her stand out and it’s what her team-mates will be quick to point to when lavishing praise on her. Mooney, though, feels that she is performing well because The Reds are performing well together.
"It is all about the team. I have worked very hard individually this season and I am reaping the awards at the moment and the hard work is paying off," said Mooney.
"Every game we’re growing as a team; we’re learning a lot about each other. We’ve had a few injuries at the moment so we’re having to battle that and find different ways of playing against different opposition. It’s only going to make us better.
"Eoin Wearen has pulled me aside a few times this year if I haven’t been scoring for a few games and he says 'Kate, you’re starting for many more reasons than just your goalscoring’.
"I work very hard, track back, win a lot of balls, win a lot of headers and I feel I’m always a threat but if I can help make someone else score to win the game then that’s even better.
"I think we know each other so well as a team so we know what each individual needs. That is hugely important. I set my target to score three goals every five games and I’ve been okay at achieving it but honestly I’d have liked to score more and provided more assists as I know I have a lot more in me, but sometimes I have to play the other side of my game to help the team."
Mooney becomes the eighth different Shelbourne player to win this monthly award and was voted ahead of Athlone Town defender Kayleigh Shine and DLR Waves forward Michelle Doonan.
She is currently awaiting news on an injury sustained in the All-Ireland Cup defeat to Bohemians last Saturday.
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