Beard: Why new Dowie deal is vital for Reds

Dowie has played a key role in helping the Ladies to clinch successive FA Women's Super League titles over the last two seasons, leading the Liverpool line to perfection and racking up the goals with her ruthless finishing.

During the 2012-13 campaign, the former Everton star scored 19 times in just 21 appearances as Beard's side clinched their first ever Super League title on an historic afternoon at the Select Security Stadium.

Last season, it seemed as though back-to-back triumphs had evaded the Ladies; however, a truly dramatic final day of action saw the Reds retain their title against all odds by beating Bristol Academy 3-0.

Beard's team jumped from third to first in the standings after their two rivals for the league - Chelsea and Birmingham City - both faltered in their fixtures, leaving Dowie and co to celebrate topping the table.

Today it was announced that the No.9 has put pen to paper on a new contract with the club - and after the news was made official, Beard sat down with Liverpoolfc.com to reflect on the developments.

"We're delighted that Natasha has decided to sign a new deal," said the manager. "I don't think it was ever in doubt. She's been a key player for us.

"In her first season, she got more than 20 goals and last season she was around the 13 mark. It's important that you have a player who can get you double figures and we're delighted that she is a Liverpool player again for next season.

"She scores goals first and foremost. But one thing that really impressed me last year was her work ethic. That's always been part of her game, but with the difficulties that we had last season due to injuries, especially at the top end of the pitch, a lot rested on her shoulders."

While Beard and his side have prospered from Dowie's goalscoring instinct and technical prowess in recent years, the Ladies have also felt the benefits of the 26-year-old's warm dedication and sheer determination.

"The most important thing is that she's a good character to have around the dressing room," said Beard. "She's very professional and she's a fantastic character. She's very bubbly and she's always smiling.

"Natasha is a winner and that's a really important quality to have in a centre-forward. She does a lot for the fans in the community and she's a good character to have around."

The Ladies confirmed another new deal on Monday when Danielle Gibbons, who last year challenged American custodian Libby Stout for the coveted No.1 goalkeeper's spot, signed a fresh contract.

"Danielle is a very good goalkeeper," said Beard. "There are certain areas of her game she can improve on. She knows that. At the start of last season it was probably a toss of a coin as to who would play.

"Danielle did play and when she was called upon she was fantastic last year. So to have two good quality goalkeepers at the club, pushing for that No.1 shirt, is vital.

"The most important thing is that we have players competing in each area of the pitch and I think that's something that we have now."