Emily Cassidy explains Leeds United Women's improvement after AFC Fylde draw

Leeds United Women defender Emily Cassidy has highlighted the increased resilience within Simon Wood's side after the Whites recorded another clean sheet in Sunday's goalless draw against AFC Fylde Women.

Leeds were forced to settle for a point at Kellamergh Park in an important FA Women's National League Division One North encounter, but produced a much-improved second-half performance after being tested by their promotion rivals before the interval.

The result extended the Whites' unbeaten run, although it was the first time they had dropped points this season, with Leeds unable to find the breakthrough despite creating several promising opportunities after the restart.

Speaking to LUTV after the match, Cassidy reflected on a contest in which she felt the momentum shifted significantly following the half-time interval.

"I think it was a game of two halves really. First half they were probably the better team. Second half we were definitely the better team, we were on top for the 45, so unlucky not to pinch a goal and get the three points really," the defender explained.

While Leeds struggled to impose themselves during the opening period, their defensive organisation remained important in ensuring they stayed in the contest.

Fylde created opportunities of their own, but the Whites managed to keep their opponents at bay before taking control for long spells after the break.

Cassidy believes that defensive improvement has been a defining feature of Leeds' performances this season, with the team looking to build greater consistency after conceding too frequently during the previous campaign.

"The change we've had this year is we are a little bit more resilient, we are trying not to concede as many goals as we did last season," she added.

The clean sheet against Fylde offered further evidence of that progress, particularly given the quality of the opposition and the importance of the fixture in the context of the league campaign.

Cassidy also explained how the players used the interval to reassess their approach, shifting their focus towards their own performance rather than concentrating too heavily on the opposition.

"We went in the changing room and we just reflected on things a little bit," she said.

"We focused on us a little bit more rather than them and in the second half I'm not sure they even had a shot. It was really important to focus on us rather than them."

Leeds subsequently enjoyed greater possession in dangerous areas and repeatedly tested the hosts' defensive structure, with substitutes also helping to maintain the pressure.

Ava Spencer-Smith came particularly close to finding a winner, rounding the goalkeeper before seeing her effort cleared off the line.

Despite being unable to convert their second-half dominance into three points, the Whites can take encouragement from another clean sheet and their continued ability to compete against one of their title rivals.

Attention now turns to next weekend's FA Cup encounter against Rotherham United Women, with Cassidy expecting another demanding test against an opponent enjoying an impressive run of form.

"Things in the group are really good. That's the first time we have dropped points this season," the defender said.

"It'll be tough next week because Rotherham are flying, so it will be a good test and we are looking forward to it."

With confidence remaining high within the squad and defensive solidity continuing to develop, Leeds will look to carry those positives into their cup assignment as they aim to maintain their momentum in the coming weeks.