Loan watch | Lazaro nets first senior goal with Watford

Maia Lazaro scored her first senior goal in Watford’s 7-1 win over Chesham United on Thursday night in the determining round of the FA Women’s National League Cup.

The young forward, who joined the Hornets on dual-registration earlier this month, was handed her first start for the club by Renée Hector, a former Spur player, and she made an instant impact at The Meadow.

On 17 minutes, Gemma Davison’s long-ball pass was taken down by Maia with ease before she drifted inside and fired a powerful effort into the bottom corner that squirmed under the keepers’ grasp.

Maia Lazaro’s first senior goal ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/4NhId15ssV

— Watford FC Women (@WatfordFCWomen) September 6, 2024

Hector’s side went on to record a comprehensive victory on the night and sees them progress to the first round of the FA Women’s National League Cup.

Following her first goal at senior level, Maia told Watford's X account:  “I feel good, it was my first start and to score as well was good.

“The older players have helped me settle in well, giving me tips on the game, so I feel good and really welcomed.”

Maia continues to train with us on certain days of the week alongside her commitments to Watford, and when asked about the difference of playing at senior level to academy football, she added: “It’s a lot more physical, I think that has been the main thing.

“The size and physicality has been the big difference but also mentality it’s a different environment, lot more intense, so having to be a lot more focused.”