Before the 2022 Spark Energy Women's A League, some believed Gintra would finally surrender their long-held crown. Instead, after a difficult start, the rejuvenated champions gathered momentum and left their rivals no chance, the club's media statement reports.
They finished 22 points clear of runners-up MFA Žalgiris-MRU, secured a 21st national title and retained the Baltic League trophy. Most importantly, they built a young Lithuanian core that gained experience, confidence and championship character throughout the season.
Midfielder Eitvydė Partikaitė had an impressive debut season. A serious cruciate ligament injury marred its ending, but she remains positive and believes she will return stronger, as her teammates wished.
– How do you assess your first Gintra season, and what made it different?
– It was interesting and special, a new experience and a good opportunity. The late injury was disappointing, but from preparations to the final match, we trained hard, aimed to win everything and developed the winning character the coach emphasised. Daily competition helped me learn from experienced players and apply that knowledge. I developed personally and professionally and earned a senior national-team invitation, which adds motivation.
– How do you assess the team's achievements?
– Proving through results rather than words that Gintra can remain at the top mattered most. The table shows we succeeded. We achieved almost every goal, missing only a better European campaign.
– You played a lot. Where did you improve most, and what remains to develop?
– I tried positions from striker to defender. The coach's trust helped my self-belief. I improved all round, particularly in team play, but there's plenty left, requiring patient, consistent work.
– What was personally hardest, including psychologically?
– New teammates, coaches and surroundings are challenging. Preparations and getting acquainted were probably hardest. Heavy workloads later paid off as we became physically stronger. Finding connections and shared goals took time, but we achieved it together.
– Were your expectations met, and what did joining give you?
– I had doubts, but looking back, my expectations were met and I'm grateful Gintra invited me. Moving up a level gave me so much: substantial playing time and Lithuanian and Baltic titles are new career achievements.
– You scored on your national-team debut. How much confidence and motivation did that bring?
– The invitation alone was hugely motivating. I don't overstate the goal, although scoring for Lithuania was lovely. I hope to return after recovering.
– What is your situation after the late-season injury?
– It hurt to be injured so near the end when I felt good and was in reasonable form. Sometimes it happens and must be accepted. My teammates' warm support means a lot. I'll try to fulfil their message and return stronger. Surgery is next, followed by consistent rehabilitation.