The 16-year-old from Whitby only joined the club this summer as she made the leap from junior to senior football.

But she has hit the ground running with eight goals in seven FA Women’s Premier League games.

Her latest came last weekend as the Lady Black Cats won 1-0 at Leeds – Sunderland leapfrogging the leaders to hit the top again as they look to retain the title they won last season.

“I am delighted with my start,” she said. “I really don’t think it could have gone any better. “I was very nervous coming up to the ladies level. I didn’t know whether I’d be physical enough or fit enough – it’s a big step up from Centre of Excellence football. “I only knew one player who I used to play with at the Middlesbrough C of E a couple of seasons ago. Apart from that, I knew no one, but all the girls made me feel welcome. “I love them. We are like one big family and I think that helps on the pitch. We can have a laugh but we also motivate and support each other.”

Mead won’t be setting any goal targets this season – however many she scores, she knows it will be less than in previous seasons!

“I have always played as a forward – it’s the position I love,” she smiled. “In the last two seasons I have scored over 40 goals each season. But this is a new start in senior football. “I’ve only ever played as a striker. I’ve got a few goals now for Sunderland Ladies, so I suppose I’m a natural goal scorer. I just know where the net is. “I didn’t set myself any targets at the start of the season apart from always putting 100 per cent effort into my game for the team. “I think that I have fitted in well. I’m a different type of player and I think everyone is pleased with my progress so far. “I didn’t think I’d play such a big part in the team so far, but I’m really happy to be doing my part for the team so far.”

Sunderland play host to fourth-placed Aston Villa at the Hetton Centre (Eppleton CW) on Sunday 16^th Oct, kick-off 1.30pm.

Neil Watson, Sports Editor, Sunderland Echo