Catching up on Partick Thistle’s 2-0 win over Aberdeen in January, I was impressed by Cara Henderson’s hold-up play.

Playing up front on her own in a 4-2-3-1 formation, she led the line well and showed a number of qualities seen typically in experienced target forwards.

At 21 years of age, Henderson clearly has a future in this role, despite experience playing in a variety of positions in the past.

Cara Henderson: Qualities shown in this game

• Good strength to shield the ball under pressure
• Backing into defenders, getting her body between them and the ball
• Use of arms to wrestle with defenders, or spin them
• Using different turns to change direction, create space for herself
• Ability to control difficult balls first time
• Ability to find teammates with accurate lay-offs and passing

Video: Henderson finding her teammates

Video: Henderson turning defenders

What this meant for Partick

Henderson offered her team a direct outlet, taking the ball in the air or to feet. She held onto possession under close scrutiny from defenders, buying time for her teammates to get up, before bringing them into play or setting up a chance.

In the videos, take notice of Henderson’s use of the lead arm when side-on, to maintain distance from her defender, making it difficult to tackle. Also, her use of both arms when back to goal, to fix the defender in position, gain some control of the 1v1, and possibly spin the defender. There was also classic target forward posture, bending slightly at the waist, using the backside Mario Mandzukic-style. This made it harder for her marker to stick a leg around and tackle.