Manchester Phoenix Women’s captain Charlene Chapman has hailed her side’s North Division One title success as a “massive team effort”.

A 6-0 victory over Coventry handed the Oakfield Road ladies their first title on Sunday evening, in only their second season.

They go onto next weekend’s play-off tournament at Ice Sheffield high on confidence, following a campaign that has seen them lose just once.

And Chapman believes that record is part of a remarkable year for the club.

She said: “We seemed to get better and better from the end of last season, and this season we really turned a corner. At the start, we weren’t sure how it would end up, but as it went on, we knew it was in our hands.

“The coaching has been great and all the staff here, including Neil Morris, have been fantastic. They’ve all been so supportive and helped our confidence to keep on going.”

That confidence – and team spirit - has been a key part of Manchester’s title success, along with a number of additions to the squad.

“Having the support from the Phoenix and a few extra players has made a big difference,” Chapman said.

“But winning the league has been down to all the players in this team. We have some very good players and everyone scored at least once.

“This season has been a massive team effort. I would put it down to everyone operating as a team and working so hard. It has deservedly come good for the girls.” ​